metro mela magazine august issue 2009

shopping i food i entertainment i health & wellness i services

EXPLORE YOUR METRO’S BEST MERCHANTS

Food Reviews Recipes and Guides

Vol. 1 Issue 6 august 2009

EvEnts calEndar picspEak listings

HOT DEALS & OFFERS!!!See page 56

complImentary copy

alsOinsidE

monsoon fashion tips

hyderabad bangalore chennai pune vizag cochin mysore mumbai delhi-ncr

6

old housesnew coffee shops

23

mumbai through our eyes

46

Hello Friends!

It’s serendipity when an old school mate springs up as a friend on a social networking site. It’s serendipity when a lost opportunity knocks on your door again. And it’s serendipity when a city that’s been written about in reams of newsprint still throws up a surprise each time. That’s the serendipity which drives us to explore our cities further and bring those surprises to you.

This time, we have brought you interesting things to see and know more about in two additional cities – Mumbai and Delhi-NCR – apart from the 7 cities that we have covered in our magazine. For instance, did you know that the city of Mumbai boasts of its own Ganges? And were you aware of an Austrian café in the land of Mysore Masala Dosa? At Metromela.com, we’ve been lucky to explore our cities and find these hidden jewels for you.

That is why this issue focuses on the new and the old of each city. Whether it is about Irani chai and contemporary coffee shops in Hyderabad or old Madras houses turned into designer stores and hangouts, we have interesting guides lined up. We have even reviewed new places that come with a touch of old; like the designer boutique in Vizag that has revived old Kalamkari art and the heritage hotel in Pune that comes with modern amenities. It sure is an interesting mix.

That apart, we have got you expert tips from designers from different cities on monsoon fashion and even coaxed our chefs and homemakers to give us some festival special recipes. After all, it’s time for special celebrations for Onam, Diwali, Ramzan and Dussehra.

Here’s hoping that you enjoy life with gaiety and happiness that come with these festivities. Your thoughts and suggestions are welcome at [email protected].

Happy Reading!

Barkha Shah

editorial teamBarkha Shah

Unika Prusty / Pranay Rupani (Hyd) Sanskrity Sinha (B’lore)

Krithika Sukumar (Chennai) Trupti Shetty (Pune)

Fanny Chakrabarti (Vizag) Nina Nair (Cochin)

Sachin Somanna (Mysore) Divya Nadkarni (Mumbai)

Priyanka Gupta (Delhi-NCR) E-mail: [email protected]

salesArun

PannalalE-mail: [email protected]

photographyLakshmi Prabhala/ Unika Prusty/ Pranay

Rupani (Hyd) Durga Prasad (B’lore)

Sumanth Kumar (Chennai) Jyothi Swaroop (Vizag)

Prashanth Nanjappa (Mysore)Prajakti Pai / Divya Nadkarni (Mumbai),

Priyanka Gupta (Delhi-NCR)

DistributionLT Naidu

Design & layoutwww.designeighteen.com

printed and published by Nitin Chowdhary on behalf of MetroMela

Internet Services Pvt. Ltd, Plot No. 244, Kavuri Hills, Phase II, Madhapur,

Hyderabad – 500081, Tel–0990813 2372 / 73.

www.metromela.com

edited by Barkha Shah. printed at Brilliant Printers Pvt Ltd,

Bangalore

Disclaimer: Utmost care has been taken in scrutinizing the editorial contents of

MetroMela magazine before going to press. However, the Editor and Publisher shall not be

held directly responsible for any inadvertent misrepresentation of fact/facts or misprint,

which may occur despite our best efforts.

VoL. 1 ISSUE 6 AUGUST 2009Editor’s Note

VoL. 1 ISSUE 6 AUGUST 2009

monsoon FashionKnow what fabric, colors, accessories and hairstyles to flaunt this monsoon.

6Festival Bonanza The right time to share delicious sweet recipes

hyderabad

Chai and Coffee 14Sports Training at its best 16

bangalore

Pause for a cause 18Ham Talk 19Interesting Restaurant Reviews 20

chennai

It’s a house, it’s a cafe 23Move in rhythm 25

pune

Luxurious Stay 27One Life, live it 30Build a Birdhouse 31

vizag

Know your Vizag 32Ethnic Treasures 34Kalamkari Revived 35Home Food Stores 36

cochin

Shop, eat, relax at Amaara 37Art Auditoriums 38Lounge at Ava 40

mysore

Expert Guide on Silk 41Austrian Café Review; Guide to Masala Dosa joints 42

mumbai

Muay Thai and Mallakhamb 44Pic Speak 46Mumbai’s Ganges 48

delhi-ncr

Blooming Delights 50Fun Museums 52Historical Peek 54

Hot Deals 56Event Calendar 57Listings 62

10

Monsoon blues are here again, and it’s back to spending hours squinting into a dark cupboard wondering what to wear; wondering what would look good

after stepping into dark oily puddles and after being splashed by careless vehicles. MetroMela.com catches up with stylists and fashion designers from Mumbai, Pune, Cochin and Bangalore for some monsoon fashion tips.

Monsoon ColorsBangalore based qualified textile designer, Julie Kagti

who has put together a strikingly unconventional collection of monsoon wear at her popular boutique, says that dark, deep and bold colors promise a bright outlook on a rainy day. Colors like orange can overshadow the paleness of the surroundings and help you stand out in a crowd. Walk out wearing a bright dress accessorized with

a deep colored handbag, brightly colored footwear and a multi-colored scarf for that perfect, chic look in the rains. So bright colors like pink, aqua, blue, lime and olive green are in this season.

It’s not wise to wear white or other pale or light color clothes during monsoon as they tend to add to

the dullness and dreariness of this murky weather. Besides, they catch stains easily and get messy while commuting.

Fashion for WomenFreelance fashion designer and stylist Amena Azeez from Mumbai says go for shirts or kurtis with short or elbow-length sleeves, and pick knee length skirts. If you are going traditional, flaunt your most colorful and liveliest kurtis, and pair them with snug-fitting churidars. Heavy salwar

EXPLORE YOUR METRO’S BEST MERCHANTS6 www.metromela.comAUGUST 2009

all c

itie

s

CLOTHInG & ACCESSORIES

Know what fabric, colors, accessories and hairstyles to flaunt this monsoon.

Monsoon Fashion

all cities

kameez with trailing dupattas are unwanted trouble. If you must wear a saree avoid cottons (they get messy and heavy), chiffons, georgettes and crepes (they lose their sheen when wet). Instead go

for silks. They are light yet hardy, very manageable, and add depth to hues, bringing out variances in the colors otherwise not seen.

For casual wear, harem pants and billowing skirts are an absolute no no. Opt for capris, trendy Bermuda pants and short denim skirts; and make sure your skirts leave you enough leg room to run under cover when it starts to pour. When it comes to make-up and hair, Model and Grooming Expert Merita Bernard (better known as Merita D’Souza), Miss India Talent 2004, knows exactly how to look stylish in rains, thanks to the endless rains in Kerala, where she now lives. She suggests, keep your make-up light. Use water-proof make-up especially mascara, eyeliner and foundation. In fact, keep it simple by using a light moisturizer and loose powder and some waterproof kajal or mascara. You can also use pencil

eyeliner in fresh, vibrant colors. Give your cheeks a flushed look with pastel shades. For lips, use a matte lip color or lightly tinted lip balm.

For hair, Merita adds that girls should choose a short and simple hairstyle that is easy to manage even if it gets wet in the rain. Avoid too much of straightening, crimping or curling because hair could turn limp in this weather. Wash hair frequently with a mild shampoo and use a light conditioner in small quantities to avoid sticky, damp hair.Carry a handbag that will not get soaked in the rain. So, leave those cloth or jute bags at home. Also, pick up a colorful umbrella instead of the boring black ones. Keep jewelry to the minimum as you don’t want your dangling earrings to get wedged in your umbrella. Go for waterproof

Merita Bernard

Reva Catalogue ’08

all c

itie

s


shoes. Add some style to casual clothing with colorful footwear like sporty sandals or floaters. Whatever kind of footwear you ultimately choose to wear, check if they are anti-slip.

Fashion for MenDesigner Revati Borawake of Reva boutique in Pune is all for tiny floral prints and dots in neutral colors for men this season. Muddy colors in orange, pink green, classic black and white are popular. Monochromes are in for men as well where they can team a black shirt with black denims.For formal parties skip the coat this season and opt for the very stylish waist coat that looks formal and trendy at the same time. In denims, light weight fabric in darker colors

can be opted for. Also cotton trousers where the bottom length can be adjusted are very convenient this season.Half sleeved, half button down shirts with batik, bandhini or floral prints are in. So is religion as Hindu motifs are making a huge comeback. Wear the mantras and the Indian prints as it would add an ethnic touch to your clothes.

In accessories, satchel bags are very popular. In ties, go for the ones in tiny floral prints again. And a definite accessory addition should be the Aviator glasses, she insists. In footwear, men can invest in comfortable chappals this season. Crocs are a good option for them as well.Merita from Cochin adds that

if you have to wear leather, pick up good quality ones and clean them often. Avoid suede if you can. If you have to wear covered shoes, make sure you wear a high quality pair of socks to prevent bacterial infection.

Her hair related tips include - stay away from hair gels and hair wax during the monsoons. These products will turn the hair clammy and ruin your style. Just ensure your hair is clean and groomed well. The trick is to enjoy the rains and not let it dampen your spirits. That’s the sign of a truly stylish person.

For fashion stores and trendy salons in your city, log on to metromela.com. l

Designer Revati Borawake of Reva boutique in Pune is all for tiny floral prints and dots in neutral colors for men this season. Muddy colors in orange, pink green, classic black and white are popular.

Reva Catalogue ’08

all c

itie

s

RESTAURAnTS


Multiple cultures, varied languages and several festivals in India are bound by the common thread of rich food during special occasions. August and September bring

along Dussehra, Onam and Ramzan, thus ensuring that it’s celebration time for all of us. Of course, there’s Independence Day too which cuts across all religious or cultural borders. That is why we think it is the right time to share delicious sweet recipes with you for some happy and indulgent times.

IngredientsPapaya - 1 (Peeled and cut into big square pieces)Mango - 1 (Peeled and cut into big square pieces)Lemon juice - 1 tbspDesiccated coconut - 2 tbsp (Roasted)

For trufflePineapple large – 1 (Peeled and grated)Double cream - 250 gIcing sugar - 1 tbspVanilla essence - ½ tsp

methodCut pineapple into chunks, blend it lightly until coarsely ground. Place it over a sieve and leave it for 5 minutes so that most of the juice drains from the fruit. Whip the cream to very soft peaks, then fold icing sugar and vanilla essence. Fold the drained pineapple into the cream mixture. Place the mangoes and papaya on a large serving dish, pour lime juice over it. Place pineapple cream on one side, decorate it with roasted coconut pineapple leaves and lemon rind.

Jamaican Fruit Truffle (serves four)From Manju Monga, an expert cook who runs popular cookery classes in Delhi

IngredientsBengal gram flour – 1 cupSugar – 2 cupsWater – 2/3 cups Ghee – 3 cupsSalt - pinch

methodHeat three cups of ghee. Take a tablespoon of melted, hot ghee and mix it with the gram flour. Mix water, sugar and salt to make thick syrup. Add gram

flour (mixed with ghee) and stir constantly on slow fire, pouring the ghee (the ghee should be hot) a little at a time. Cook until the mixture becomes frothy and the ghee separates. Place a perforated dish on a large plate and pour in the mixture to drain off excess ghee. Spread out on a greased plate and when firm, cut into squares.

mysore pakFrom Vasantha Achar, a homemaker and expert cook from Mysore

Festival Bonanza

all cities

FOR MORE SUCH ARTICLES LOG ON TO AUGUST 2009www.metromela.com 11

IngredientsBroken Wheat - 500 gmsMutton – 1,000 gmsUrad Dal - 1/2 cupChana Dal - 1/2 cupOnion - 8 - 12 nos.Ginger Garlic Paste - 2 tbspCurd - 1 cupRed Chilli Powder - 2 tsp (or to taste)Garam Masala Powder - 1 tbspShahi Jeera - 1 tspKabab Cheeni - 1 tbspChopped Coriander - for garnishingMint - for garnishingGreen Chillies - 7-8 nosGhee- 1 cupOil- 1 cupKaju pasteKaju for garnishing

methodSoak the wheat and Dals overnight in water. In a cooker fry the onions in oil till slightly brown. Add ginger garlic paste, red chilli powder, garam masala powder, curd, green chillies, kaju paste and sauté till the oil separates. Add the meat and cook for some more time. Add chopped coriander and mint leaves, close the cooker and let the meat cook. Take a big vessel, fill it half with water and boil. Add the soaked wheat and cook till the wheat is partially cooked. Add salt to taste and keep aside. In a grinder add both the dals and the cooked meat. Let it grind well, add the partially cooked wheat

and let everything blend well in the grinder. Remove the paste from the grinder into a vessel; keep stirring till the raw smell goes away. Add Kabab Cheeni and Shahi Jeera powder. While

serving, add ghee, garnish with coriander, fried onions, partly fried kaju and lemon pieces.

Hyderabadi mutton HaleemFrom Afsar Ahmed in Hyderabad, who was the National Women’s Basketball Team Captain, 1980

IngredientsRipe mangoes - 4 medium Coconut - 1 no.Shallots - 3 nos.Green chillies - 4 nos. Dry red chilli - 3 nos. Yogurt - 250 mlMustard seeds - 2 tspFenugreek powder - 2 pinchesCumin - ¼ tspTurmeric powder -½ tspCurry leaves - a fewSalt - to tasteCoconut oil -2 tbsp

methodPeel the ripe mangoes. Boil mangoes (whole) with turmeric powder, two of the green chillies (slit) and salt. Next,

make a fine paste of grated coconut, shallots, cumin and remaining two green chillies. Add this paste to the boiled mangoes. When this is cooked, turn off the flame. Now add beaten yogurt, fenugreek powder and salt to taste. Stir well. For seasoning, heat coconut oil and add mustard seeds, curry leaves and dry red chillies. Pour this over the mango curry. Mambhazham Pulisheri tastes best with rice and vegetable accompaniments.

mambazham pulisheriFrom Executive Chef Anilkumar VV at Travancore Court in Cochin

all c

itie

s


IngredientsRipe Papaya -1 no. Jaggery - 400 gmsCoconut - 1 no. Thick Coconut Milk - 1 cupThin Coconut Milk - 1½ cup Cardamom and Dry ginger powder - 4 gmsGhee - 10 mlRaisins - 5 gmsCashew nuts - 10 gmsPieces of papaya - less than a handful, chopped

For coconut milkGrate the coconut. Add 1 cup of water to the grated coconut and grind well in a mixer. Squeeze out thick milk from it. Now add 1 ½ cup of water and grind it again. This gives you the thin milk.

For jaggery syrupPowder the jaggery. Add half cup water and melt it over flame. Strain it.

methodMake a paste of papaya and sauté in ghee. Add the jaggery syrup. Stir continuously. When it boils, simmer the flame and cook till the mixture thickens a bit. Now add thin coconut milk, cardamom and dry ginger powder. Keep stirring. Increase the flame till it boils. Now simmer again and cook till the mixture attains further thick consistency. Add thick coconut milk and stir for a few minutes. Now switch off the flame and keep stirring for some time. In a small pan, pour in ghee and heat. Now add raisins, cashew nuts and chopped pieces of papaya and fry a little. Pour this over the payasam mixture. Payasam is ready.

papaya payasamFrom Executive Chef Anilkumar VV at Travancore Court in Cochin

IngredientsFresh Pineapple – 1 (peeled and cubed)Kiwi - 1 (peeled and cubed)Strawberries – 2 (cut lengthwise)Mango – 1 (peeled and cubed)

methodArrange these pieces on wooden sticks.

Ingredients for sauceFresh mango puree - 1 cupThick Yogurt - ½ cupSugar - 1 tsp

Vanilla Essence - ¼ tspFresh Mint leaves - to decorate

methodBlend all the ingredients of the sauce except mint leaves. Arrange the sticks in the plate and place the sauce in the centre. Decorate it with mint sprig and serve chilled.

Fruit sticks with mango sauceFrom Manju Monga, an expert cook who runs popular cookery classes in Delhi

all cities


hyderabad’s a city where the new and the old reside together; where the old and glitzy Lad Bazaar co-exists

with the sleek GVK One mall, where the second hand book market in Abids competes with the recent addition Landmark and where the Irani cafes do not lose their sheen in spite of the coffee culture. Metromela.com lets you know where to find the best Irani Chai and the most happening coffee shops in the city.

tea timeTea cafes became a part of the Indian culture when Persian traders visited the country. The Irani Chai that came with

it is a great blend of brewed tea leaves, boiled milk and sweetened condensed milk. This variety of tea is available at small and old cafes and is surprisingly priced from Rs. 2.5 to Rs. 5 per cup. Its another variation includes the Khade Chammach ki chai so named because the cup has so much sugar that the spoon stands upright when inserted to mix. The tea at these cafes is best had with the sweet and salty Osmania biscuits.

Hotel Shadab on High Court Road is one of the places that serve great Irani Chai. One of the quirkiest rules at this place is that they have a strict policy against providing an extra cup. Alpha Hotel is as popular too, considering the fact that

they prepare over 3,000 pots of tea a day. In fact, its location near Secunderabad station ensures continuous flow of customers.

The chai at Paradise Hotel may be best described as milky, with a bit of masala and brewed in aluminum kettles. Like its famed Biryani, the chai here is equally popular amongst many localites.

Garden Restaurant (Opp. Clock Tower, Secunderabad) is for the lovers of art. The chai here is best served with Lukhmi (a unique biscuit with meat inside) and is known to be the famous artist MF Husain’s favorite cup of tea. So much so that whenever he visits the city he makes sure that he personally goes there to sit and enjoy his cuppa. The place has its own charm as it has seen Hyderabad grow up from a sleepy town to a Cyber City.

coffee delightsWhile Hyderabad has relished the taste of its Irani chai, it has welcomed the coffee culture with open hands too. In fact, these coffee shops have become second home to college students. And since many of these come with Wi-fi facility, they have even become popular meeting venues for office goers.

Café Coffee Day and Barista are the most well-known ones in the city simply because you can find an outlet at every alternate bend or corner. These coffee shops flaunt their casual ambience ‘to a T’, be it in their furniture, the décor, the

A perfect blend of the new and the old, Hyderabad has retained its Chai shops

even as it embraces the Coffee lounges.

Chai and Coffeehyde

raba

d

RESTAURAnTS

Irani Chai and Osmania Biscuits

all cities

clothes of the staff or even the menu. Apart from varieties of coffee blends, some of these joints have even graduated to offering full meals in the form of pastas, biryanis and parathas. Perfect place to chill out over a board game with a cup of coffee. Prices start from around Rs. 30. Must-try the warm blueberry muffins at these places.

Café Rico also allows you a board game over some grub and coffee. Carrom, Snakes and Ladders, Chess, Ludo, Spell ‘o’ Word and more are all available here. There are magazines, newspapers and even novels lying around for your reading pleasure. Of course, there’s television too. So a great place to spend a couple of hours with friends. Their Cheese Omelet is a must-have.

Another interesting coffee shop, Café Earth, serves pizzas, wraps, sandwiches and burgers apart from coffee (Espressos, Irish coffee, Cappuccinos, filter coffees like Mysore Nuggets and Monsoon Malabar), tea (Darjeeling tea, Assam tea,

Iced tea etc), smoothies and fruit juices. And of course a variety of sweet treats like pastries, tarts, pies and more. Must-try is their Hot Chocolate. A large mug of it is just what one needs on a cold day. Their Paneer Tikka Sub Sandwich is also a good option and serves two.

Then there’s Sweet Nirvana which offers a truly luxurious option to sit back and relax in its green and serene ambience. The music here is not loud and jarring like in the other coffee shops. In fact, there’s emphasis on privacy and space with tables set far from each other. While the coffee options are limited here, dessert options are plenty and varied ranging from Brownies to Baklava.

Worth a visit for a romantic date. Prices start at around Rs. 60 for a Café Latte.

For those looking for something different, try Mocha. Every room in this kitsch coffee shop has a theme and is an experience in itself. The dimly lit smoking lounge where the sheesha is

brought in is contemporary in its décor and suave in its feel. A room that goes by the name of Silver Room, with lines from Robert Frost scrawled across the wall has few couples seeking their privacy within. But it is really the courtyard outside which catches one’s fancy - filled with collectibles from flea markets (like quaint chairs, lamps and other artifacts, some of which can actually be bought by patrons) it has huge trees and the gentle evening breeze for one to enjoy. Along with coffee, pastas, paninis, rolls and muffins are all available. But it’s the flavored hookahs that attract the crowds.

And finally, My Café Latte is for the cine lovers. With several technicolor posters of Golden oldies from both Hollywood and Bollywood making for kitsch wall-art, this place also has an awesome amphitheatre with super-comfortable seats where you can have your own private movie screening with friends. So you can watch your favorite movie with a bunch of friends over coffee and sandwiches. Sounds fun?

To know more about these coffee shop locations, please log on to metromela.com. l

all c

itie

shyderabad


Mocha’s sheesha


hyde

raba

d

sport in India is usually synonymous with cricket alone. And that is why a world-class badminton academy

stands out for it has been built in spite of the odds. Pullela Gopichand, the former All England Open Badminton Championship winner has tasted success yet again with the victories of his student Saina Nehwal. However, his love and dedication towards this sport, comes across best through his academy in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. The five-acre academy is developing beautifully and still has portions that would see completion shortly. It is being built on the lines of a sports village that would promote sports not just as a profession but also as a fun way to stay fit and spend time together. That is why it’s even turning out to be a place that working professionals could look towards for their corporate outings.

Gopichand is quite clear on why he

wanted to start such a sports village. He traveled throughout the world and was exposed to brilliant sports infrastructure. He missed it in India and therefore brought it upon himself to build such a dream.

As we tour the academy within the Hyderabad Sports Village we spot several Indian and international players practicing their smashes. We soon realize that this is the place they come to for training when world championships like the Yonex-Sunrise BWF World Championships are held in Hyderabad.

As the coach of the Indian badminton team, Gopichand is confident of India’s hidden talent in this sport and intends to therefore popularize it. And that is why he has left no requirement untouched through this academy.

The three-storied building houses eight courts with top-notch facilities as per

ExTRACURRICULAR

Sports Training at its best

A world-class academy and

sports village that runs as a training

ground as well as a leisure and fitness

club for families and corporates.

all cities


all c

itie

shyderabad

international norms, sprung wooden flooring with requisite lighting, changing rooms for players, well equipped gymnasium along with 15 rooms and two 12-bed dormitories for accommodation, all air-conditioned.

Physical fitness is ensured and so there is an athletic track, an upcoming swimming pool, weight training and of course yoga and meditation for mental rejuvenation. Emphasis is also placed on eating right and therefore there is a well-stocked cafeteria and a dietician for nutrition counseling.

The academy also encourages tournament matches for children with budding players taking part in the State and National championships. This serves as a talent search mechanism, believes Gopichand adding that one really needs to start young to understand the pulse of the game. Other than that, the academy also invites hobby players who just want to play and keep fit.

Gopichand also wishes to promote other sports through the Sports Village like table tennis and swimming and would bring in experts in those fields as well. Yoga, aerobics and meditation would be encouraged too. Families that are looking at ways to unwind apart from shopping at malls and catching up on a movie at a multiplex could definitely look at it as a healthy and fun alternative. And of course, those interested in sports as a career, need not look further for world-class training. With this Sports Village, Gopichand is certainly giving back something the nation will be proud of. l

The BWF (Badminton World Federation) World Championships held recently in

Hyderabad, started in 1977 and were held once every three years until 1983. The tournament became bi-annual in the year 1985 and was held once every two years until 2005. Since then, it has become an annual event on the BWF

calendar with the objective to give more opportunities to the players to be crowned

as official World Champions.

The official sponsors for the tournament in 2009 have been Yonex, the globally acclaimed leader in racquet

and shaft technology, and Sunrise & Co. PTE Ltd, a multinational conglomerate dealing in branded sporting

equipment, accessories, sports apparels and sports footwear.

The event sees participation from around 45 countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Denmark, Japan, China, Sweden, Vietnam, England, Korea, France, Austria, Belgium, Thailand etc. Among the 500-odd participants that the event gets, Indian champions include Saina Nehwal, Chetan Anand, Jwala and Diju.

tournament background

Hyderabad sports VillagePlot. No. 91, Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, Gachibowli, Hyderabad. Tel - 31114223


bang

alor

e

PAUSE FOR A CAUSE

from anti-nuclear protest in 1971 to its fight today against genetically modified (GM) crops, Greenpeace has

come a long way. Originally known as the Greenpeace Foundation, this organization was founded in Vancouver, British Columbia, to oppose United States’ testing of nuclear devices in Amchitka, Alaska. The focus of the organization later turned from anti-nuclear protest to other environmental issues. Today Greenpeace has expanded its base to 40 countries including India with its international headquarters in Amsterdam. In India, it is headquartered at Bangalore with a presence across 16 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad etc. Besides dedicated campaigners, Greenpeace has a steady base of volunteers in every major city, who help the organization fight for environmental issues using tools such as direct action, lobbying, research and innovation. While the organization is a firm believer in non-violence, its activities are ‘response-oriented’ where activists do not budge from their position unless they receive a response from the target audience. Explains activist Stella, “Greenpeace activities are very proactive. Instead of the conventional way of hunger strikes or ‘Dharna’, Greenpeace takes bolder steps, even while remaining non-violent. This involves

a lot of risks like police cases, legal and physical harassment but at the same time it is bound to bear clear results.”Recently, Greenpeace volunteers raided a field in Hyderabad where a German company was secretly growing untested and unsafe GM rice. Greenpeace put scare-crows and bio-hazard messages in the field, warning signs outside the gate and cordoned off the entire field. The company filed an FIR against not only Greenpeace activists, but also against media personnel. However, once the news about the FIR became public, the support for Greenpeace’s cause strengthened, eventually increasing the level of awareness about GM rice among the locals.

A unique feature about Greenpeace is its fund raising style. To maintain its independent nature, Greenpeace as an NGO does not accept donations from governments or corporations or private business houses but relies only on contributions from individual supporters. This gives the organization the power to take on anyone, be it a government agency or a corporate house if there’s an environmental crime detected. Besides, Greenpeace lobbies with law and policy makers to advocate for a cause or help find a solution to an environmental problem. Currently, Greenpeace volunteers in Karnataka are

meeting individual parliamentarians in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to support and make the proposed Renewable Energy Law come into effect.

Greenpeace has also created awareness about the high levels of toxic components in computers and laptops in India as compared to those in the west. Bangalore being the Silicon Valley of India has been sitting on a time bomb with heaps of toxic wastes or e-waste since it has the maximum numbers of computers in the country. With Greenpeace’s efforts, now corporates like Wipro, Philips and Nokia have initiated takeback policy based on which they are accepting unused computers or laptops for recycling.

For some issues, Greenpeace also partners with other NGOs. Like in the campaign against the release of GM food crop BT Brinjal in Bangalore, Greenpeace has been fighting under an umbrella organization called GM- Free India Coalition. The coalition has not only successfully stopped the release of BT Brinjal so far, but has also made the GM issue a national one.

Greenpeace is a non-profit organization that works on issues affecting our day to day lives. Since the organization works on a wide range of subjects, there are ample opportunities for us to be a part of a cause close to our heart. l

A non-profit organization,

Greenpeace works on environment

related issues like e-waste and GM

crops.

For a greener environment

greenpeace# 60, Wellington Street, Richmond Town Bangalore – 560025. Tel - 41154861

Stella Paul, Greenpeace activist in a protest action against BT Brinjal and GM food

ExTRACURRICULAR


bangalore

at a time when airwaves are cluttered with private radio channels, Ham radio may be an unknown entity. This is in

spite of the fact that it has proved to be a reliable tool of communication even during natural disasters like the Tsunami. During such times, the Ham Radio helps communicate important news and messages to people when mobiles and landlines become defunct.

It was in the year 1992 when two veteran Hams, S Sathyapal (known by frequency VU2FI on air) and RJ Marcus (known by frequency VU2VTM) founded the Indian Institute of Hams (IIH) in Bangalore. Since then, they have been promoting Ham Radio as a scientific hobby. The IIH is a registered trust and is licensed by the Ministry of Communications and IT, Government of

India. It is also affiliated to the National Institute of Amateur Radio (NIAR), Hyderabad. Located at Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on Kasturba Road in Bangalore, IIH helps students, professionals and other enthusiasts turn amateur Ham radio operators. The institute also conducts awareness programmes on Ham radio and helps in setting up Ham Radio Clubs at educational institutions.The Indian Institute of Hams conducts classes to help you prepare for the examination by the Ministry of Communications and IT. These classes basically provide introduction to the history and origin of Ham Radio, basic Electronics (only theory), instructions about rules, regulations and operating procedures of Ham Radio and a live demonstration. The trainer also provides an insight into the age old way of communicating by Morse Code on Ham Radio. Morse Code is a practice of transmitting message in which alphabet and numerals are represented by various sequences of dots and dashes.Classes are held for three weeks in different batches on

Saturdays and Sundays. Evening classes on Saturdays and morning classes on Sundays have been strategically planned for students and working professionals. The admission fee is Rs. 1,200 (for students and retired people it is Rs. 900) that includes membership fee, examination fee and cost of study material. Examination is conducted after three months from the date of application to Ministry of Communications and IT, Government of India for grant of Ham Operating license. Anyone of 12 years of age and above can take this examination. Once you have passed the examination, you can either build your own radio set with the help of IIH or buy equipment.

It’s interesting to know that signals from a wireless Ham radio set can reach astronauts on a space shuttle where no mobile network can reach. It’s age-old but it challenges the modern day communication methods and IIH

provides this opportunity to learn more about it. Take up the course and start getting in touch with other Hams because when all wireless or electronic connectivity fails, Ham radio still functions. l

Learn about Ham Radio, an old communication tool that’s still going strong.

Ham Talk

Indian Institute of HamsRoom No. 98, 2nd Floor, Gate No.2, Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium, Kasturba Road, Bangalore- 560001. Tel - 26664501

Marcus communicating on the old and reliable Ham Station

Sathyapal with his Ham Radio Station

RESTAURAnTS


bang

alor

e

Old Flavors, New Location

Yoganan Yogesh, an employee of Canara Bank on MG Road has been an ardent fan of Indian Coffee House for

12 years. In fact, he visits this quaint little coffee shop 3-4 times a day. Somashekhar, his friend, is yet another avid visitor since 1984 who relishes his favorite egg sandwich with a cup of coffee. Interestingly, both met for the first time at Indian Coffee House and are now the best of friends. But what’s more interesting is the fact that the change of location has not stopped them from meeting up at their favorite coffee joint since years. As Yoganan shrugs, “Indian Coffee House remains the best in every aspect.” Perhaps a lot of Bangaloreans

feel the same and that is why even in its new location, Indian Coffee House, run by the Indian Coffee Workers Co-operative Society, is teeming with people.

Formerly housed on MG Road in a two storey building, Indian Coffee House that started in the 50s had to shut down in April 2009 because of some legal issues. Much to the relief of its loyal customers, it opened its doors again on Church Street at Brigade Gardens. We visited this newly opened coffee house on Church Street and were a little taken aback by its small size. The coffee shop has been reduced to a one-room cafeteria with a seating capacity for 50-60 people at a time. But apart from that, everything else remains as it was. The same old furniture, the photo frames of Mahatma Gandhi on the

An old coffee shop that’s got a new location and a relatively new restaurant that boasts of historical décor. Metromela.com reviews both for you.

Something old, Something new

wall and sepia toned pictures of the Indian Coffee Board have kept the originality unaltered. There’s hardly a time when the tables are empty here. Liveried waiters with turbans representing the British Raj era serve endlessly with the same warm smile. The coffee, incredibly tastes the same too.

Apart from the strong filter coffee, you can try egg sandwich (must try), vegetable cutlets, boiled

eggs, omelets, masala dosa, idli and vada here. All the items are priced less than Rs. 50. No wonder we see groups of old-

timers gossiping, office-goers meeting for a coffee break and college buddies discussing their future with the same ease that they would at home. That’s possibly what sets apart Indian Coffee House even to this date.

Indian Coffee House is open from 8 AM to 8.45 PM. Parking can be done on Church Street.

Young but Historical

Dressed in Mughal Kaftans, the ushers lead us in. We explore this theme restaurant called

Jalsa on Marathahalli Ring Road that exhibits designs reminiscent of the past. The food court, named Junoon, has domes reflecting Mughal architecture, the beaded curtains hang like precious stones strung on a thread and the low seating dining area inside with bolsters and grilled windows make you feel royal. The walls are embellished with mirrors and murals and a huge chandelier shines beautifully from the ceiling. The main dining area seems like a Sultan’s court inside a palace with tables decked in royal red and paired with old styled chairs and sofas upholstered in silk. Lamps on the side walls, add to the mood.

The menu designed like a jharokha carries forward the theme. The food is Mughlai and Afghani. Mocktails, cocktails, liquor, wine and Breezers add a global touch while the Indian drinks like Lassi, Jal Jeera, Pudina Sharbat etc retain their innate charm. In starters, you should try Barra Kabab. These are lamb chops marinated in Kashmiri spices cooked in a clay oven. Jhinga Balai Ka, in which prawns are cooked in cheese and cream and prepared in a clay oven is also a must have. Vegetarians could go for Subz Potli Kabab, which is marinated minced cheese and potato stuffed with chopped bell peppers.

The main course includes the usual dishes but among them an interesting one is the Khammeri ki Roti which is fermented Afghani bread made from wheat flour, yeast and yogurt. Also, Ghost Nehari, a Nawabi delicacy from


bangalore

Indian coffee House#19, Ground Floor, Brigade Gardens, Church Street, Bangalore – 560001. Tel - 25587088

Royal welcome at Jalsa


Awadh in which pieces of lamb are cooked in a rich gravy is a spicy treat. You could also try Baluchistan Naan, another Afghani bread stuffed with minced lamb and Peshawari Chana, the popular Kabuli chana cooked in true Peshawari style. In desserts, Rabdi Malpua is a delight.

These are deep fried pancakes

soaked in sugar syrup, and dunked in saffron flavored, thick, creamy dessert.

Jalsa provides indoor and outdoor space for party and has a seating arrangement

for about 160 guests at a time. Home delivery service is available within a radius of three kilometers. Ghazal nights are held on every Wednesday.

Worth a try for a romantic time out. Meal price for two would range between Rs. 800 and Rs. 1,000. Parking space is available. You can visit it from 12 PM to 4 PM and 7 PM to 11.30 PM.

For more restaurant reviews, log on to metromela.com. l

bang

alor

e

Jalsa# 25, Outer Ring Road, Marathahalli, Bangalore – 560037. Tel - 32425757

The walls are embellished with mirrors and murals and a huge chandelier shines beautifully from the ceiling. The main dining area seems like a Sultan’s court inside a palace with tables decked in royal red and paired with old styled chairs and sofas upholstered in silk.

RESTAURAnTS chennai


fitting stores and cafés into the hall rooms and backyards of quaint Madras homes is fashionable today. The idea

came as a novel one to Chennai in 1999, with Amethyst starting a café and high-end store within the renovated rooms of a 100-year old bungalow. Since then, there have been numerous cafés and upscale stores popping up in refurbished houses in the city including The Madras Terrace House, Café Ashvita (that doubles up as an art gallery), The Ode Gallery (a home décor store and outdoor café), and the more recently opened

Kipling Café. “Café-stores have created spaces that allow people to kick off their shoes and settle down to a cuppa, and browse through the store in leisure. And houses have an inherent and distinctive charm that can instantly make people feel relaxed and at home. They fit in with the idea of the branding these café-stores are trying to create,” observes Mathangi S, Partner, Chamiers, who renovated a crumbling bungalow into a white-washed eco-café that is reminiscent of Sunday mornings.

Residential architecture from a forgotten Madras home seems to best flatter the sense of exclusivity and old-world charm these aesthetic café-stores are trying to create. But the concept isn’t all form without function. “Having a café and a store in the same premises ensures that they share customers; a person stepping into the store would mostly stop by for a drink at the café, and vice-versa. Besides, renting a house works out significantly

Explore the new trend of converting

old houses into new cafes and

stores with Metromela.com.

It’s a house, it’s a café

Artwork at display at The Madras Terrace House

cheaper than renting the same area in a mall, minus one-time renovation costs,” says Shafee Ahmed, Proprietor, Beanstock Café, who ventured to set up his outdoor café in a the parking shed of a house that is the Ambrosia store.

Here’s a hot list of such café-stores that are gaining business and popularity in old Madras houses.

amethystA 100-year old Zamindari bungalow, called Sundar Mahal, has been converted into a café and store. The café serves sandwiches, pastas, cold coffees, teas and small bites. The house also has The Store that retails designer wear, home décor items and jewelry.

chamiersAnother old bungalow that has been converted into an outdoor eco café that serves up short eats, coffees, teas, delicious vanilla and cinnamon scented hot chocolate and juices. Chamiers also houses jewelry, books, knick knacks, and a line of Lokkesh Ahuja designed menswear, and the Jeyporean brand, Anokhi that comes out with block printed cotton clothes.

the madras terrace house A 70-year-old Iyengar house that stocks clothes and knick knacks in one of its rooms, and serves cutting chai and

snacks in a quaint outdoor Tea Kadai.

ashvita A place that has white interiors and colorful tiles with prints of Tamil film stars and comfortable bean bags to sit in. The café serves cold coffees, tea and snacks. Several rooms of the house serve as an art gallery.

ode galleryThis house serves as an interior décor store. Outdoors, they have a café that serves coffee, tea and delicious muffins and cakes.

Kipling A beautiful spot that would be ideal for a romantic dinner date, Kipling Café has semi-private cabins with white cloth partitions, comfortable white sofas, and orchid-ornamented vases. The pizza here is delicious. They also serve other continental delicacies. Kipling Café has a store within a house, while the restaurant is laid out in the sprawling lawns surrounding the house.

beanstock A small café that serves tea, cookies, pastas, short eats, and coffee, Beanstock stands in the renovated car parking shed of a house. Inside the house sits a store Ambrosia that sells clothes, accessories, and shoes.

To know the locations of these cafes or stores, SMS store name and city to 56161 in the following format - MM Info Beanstock in Chennai - and wait for the contact info to be SMSed back. l


chen

nai

Casual ambience with beach umbrellas and colorful lamp shades at Tea Kadai

Chamiers Cafe

chennai


it’s artistic, it’s non-verbal and yet it expresses the deepest expressions through mere movements. Yes, it’s dance that we are talking about.

Chennai is a melting pot of various dance cultures. Traditional and western dance forms find a home in the lap of this city. Metromela.com reviews a traditional institution of dance and arts and also presents a guide on the popular western dance schools in the city.

Gurukul style KalakshetraKalakshetra or the temple of art is a beautiful gurukul style school spread over 100 acres of natural surroundings. Hardly a wonder then that we are handed a map to help us find our way through the temple-like buildings. We see lovely cottages that function as classrooms, museum, library and guest houses. The Rukmini Arangam or the open-air theater leaves us mesmerized. At the far end of the campus are the hostels and a library apart from Bharat Kalakshetra Auditorium built in the koothambalam (traditional temple theater for dramatic art performances) style of Kerala. In the midst of all the concrete is the legendary giant banyan tree with Ganesha, where students and teachers pray everyday. The

students are encouraged to dress only in sarees, pavada dhavnis, dhotis and kurta pyjamas. The institution also makes it a point to serve only nutritious vegetarian food, and encourages students to sit cross-legged on the floor. The lifestyle this institution encourages is simple, traditional and legendary.

Kalakshetra was set up in 1936 by the legendary Bharatnatyam dancer Rukmini Devi Arundale. Rukmini Devi was magnificent in her own way; she learnt the ‘dassi attam’ which was performed only by devadasis at that time. Rukmini Devi went on to defy the social norms and even learnt ballet from Anna Pavlova. The present campus came about in 1962 and is today headed by Leela Samson, a former student of Arundale.

The institution today

is visited by students from abroad

for learning various art forms and for research. Kalakshetra provides courses in Bharatnatyam, Carnatic vocal, instrumental music, traditional crafts, visual arts, aesthetics, history, textual heritage, textile design and philosophy. These are offered as diploma and post diploma courses (admissions start by May). Part time courses are offered to young children three days a week in the evenings.

Kalakshetra also organizes programmes regularly by eminent artists. The

Kalakshetra festival happens in December and the celebration of Rukmini Devi’s birthday goes on for a week in February. Art and craft exhibitions are also an integral part of the academy. Lectures and workshops

It’s a microcosm of dance cultures in

Chennai that promotes traditional Indian and

popular western dance forms equally well.

Move in rhythm

ExTRACURRICULAR

KalakshetraTiruvanmiyur, Chennai – 600041. Tel - 24524057


chen

nai

happen all the year round. For visitors, the entry fee is Rs. 50 per head. The Kalakshetra brochure, which lists everything there is to know about the place and its projects, will be handed to you on payment of Rs. 10. Photography is usually not allowed and dance classes can be observed from outside the cottages. Stage performances usually happen from 6.30 PM to 8.30 PM.

Modern Dance SchoolsWhile Chennai has Kalakshetra, it also has several western dance schools. Yet, there are very few that are recognized names. These are the ones that offer the experienced dancers and professional training. Metromela.com guides you with a list of better known, nationally recognized institutions.

Hot shoe Dance companyFounded by Jeffrey Vardon in the late 90s, the institution offers dances like salsa, jive, hip hop and even tap dance. The duration of your basic course, depends a lot on your individual progress. The classes are conducted at O2 health studio, usually. Vardon is one of the most respected dancers in the city, and has trained abroad. He has also conducted numerous dance shows, and participated in many musicals staged in

the city. “Dance is not just movement, it’s also attitude, and I teach that,” he says.

the academy of modern Danse This institution functions out of the Russian Cultural Centre, and offers dance classes that are certified. Their ballet and jazz classes are certified by the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing. At the end of their hip-hop and ballroom classes you will receive certification by the United Kingdom Association. They conduct salsa classes that are certified by the LA Dance Connection. It’s the best place to learn Ballet too. Kokila Hariram, the head instructor is a trained ballet dancer, and her students have even traveled to Bangkok for the Asia Pacific Dance competition; the first time India represented at the same. As the dance courses here are certified, they even help students when they apply to universities abroad. “Having

an extra curricular activity adds weight to their resume,” says Hariram.

John Britto’s Dance companyTeaches Latin dances mostly and claims to have international trainers coming in. Founded by John Britto, the company regularly does highly-priced choreography for dance shows, and college culturals. Classes are held twice a week.

the swingers Founded by cine-choreographer, B Murali, The Swingers offers the usual round of dances - salsa, hip hop, jive, jazz and funk, and rock and roll. Courses are classified into professional and non-professional levels,

depending on the duration. Many people who come in here are also taken up by the institution as trainers. “Dance is a

fun way to lose weight, and we make sure our students have

fun when learning,” says B Murali.

the Verb school of Dance

Founded by Dubai-bred Vinu John, The Verb

School of Dance offers instruction in Hip

Hop, Salsa, Merengue, Jive, Free Style, Waltz, Fox Trot,

Cha cha cha, Rock n Roll and

Line Dances. The salsa classes here are famed.

Courses have no specific time period.

All the institutions mentioned above, have mixed classes – both men and women are welcome to

apply. Usually anyone above the age of 5 can apply. Some institutions sometimes host dance performances; John Britto usually holds once a year. Learn more about these schools on metromela.com. l

Students of The Academy of Modern Danse

We discover two interesting hotels in Pune - an old fort transformed into a classy hotel and a new one that has all the trappings of modern living.

Royal and Traditional Fort Jadhavgad, a heritage hotel takes you back in time with its architectural splendor. In the breathtaking countryside of Saswad village, 25 kilometers from Pune, Fort Jadhavgad was built in 1907 on a hillock, by Pilaji Jadhavrao a valiant Maratha general in the army of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji. The fort took five years to be built and gives glimpses of

Maratha craftsmanship. It was restored by Vithal Kamat of Orchid Chain of Hotels in 2007 and is now a heritage hotel. The fort is old, but like its motto (Ladh Jhagad, Aage Badh - Struggle and Succeed), it stands tall even today. The fort hotel is spread over an expanse of 25 acres and offers a taste of history, with luxurious comfort and hospitality in an eco-friendly environment. Women in traditional nine yard sarees with aarti thali greet you at the entrance against the music of shehnai in the background. A modern touch is added with a cold towel and a refreshing drink.

Enter the fort gate and pass the pathways and you are completely mesmerized by the mysterious innate charm. Names like Kholis for rooms, Kund for swimming pool and Akhada for the health club add to the experience. The staff as well carries ranks like kiledars, subedars or swagat kaksha vyavasthapak.

A walk around the property will make

you realize that the original look and ambience has been retained in spite of the massive restorations and additions. The kholis have been created in the side walls of the fortress to avoid damaging the 300-year-old structure. So you enjoy the modern amenities of plasma television and electronic safe within a historical fort whose walls even have sealed ammunition openings.

Their multi-cuisine restaurant called Chajja, has a splendid adjacent sit-out. The restaurant serves traditional Maharashtrian dishes along with a mix of Indian and Continental food. Must-tries are achari baingan (brinjal), tambda chicken rassa (Kolhapur curry preparation) and paneer khada masala with hot naan. Desserts like walnut fudge and gulab jamuns are tasty too. Charcoal Grill is another restaurant here while Bawdi is its pool bar. The hotel is also into rainwater harvesting and grows vegetables in its own organic farm.

The highlight of the property is the

Explore a heritage hotel and

know more about a luxurious

contemporary hotel in Pune.

Luxurious Staypune

HOTELS & SERVICED APARTMEnTS

Fort Jadhavgad from outside. The buildings that house the rooms stand out amidst the stone structure.


pune museum comprising Vithal Kamat’s

personal collection called AAI dedicated to the memories of his mother. This two level museum recreated in the old stables of the fort, showcases day to day traditional artifacts used in every home. Most of the artifacts, furniture and jewelry displayed here are in excellent condition with detailed craftsmanship. Given a chance, do tour through the scary dungeons and the wine cellar as well.

Fort Jadhavgad is a great place for a tourist to stay for its historical ambience as well as modern facilities. It is also apt for corporate outings and weddings as they offer huge lawns and excellent packages with special musical and dance programs like lavni (traditional Marathi dance form), ghazal programmes, hasya kavitas etc. Day trip facilities are also offered. Customer service is impeccable.

Popular and Contemporary

started by the popular socialite duo Neelam and Anil Seolekar, O Hotel is all about opulence.

Located in Koregaon Park this five-star hotel overlooks lush green surroundings and is close to Pune’s business district and shopping areas.

Grand hallways with mood lighting lead

you to the 99 deluxe and club rooms and 13 suites. There’s also a Presidential suite, usually booked for the rich and the famous. The O suite, 630 square feet in size, has luxurious seating area in flamboyant red. The rest of the interiors are a classy mix of beige, black, dull gold and white with specially picked artifacts. An open soak tub with bath salts ensures a relaxing bath after a tired day. Better still, you can pick from a ‘pillow menu’ including anti allergic, anti stress and millet pillow. Mini bar, complimentary coffee machine,

electronic safe, video on demand, Plasma television and Wi-Fi broadband facilities are

also available.

The hotel also has O Salon with an open massage center amidst artificial lotus ponds, Buddha statues and beautiful flowers. A perfect setting for a morning massage amidst chirping birds and pleasant breeze. There is an enclosed spa area too with a lounge area and a special massage room for couples.

Fort JadhavgadJadhav Wadi District, Pune – 412301. Tel - 02115- 238475

The Lobby Bar at O Hotel

For food and beverages the hotel has ample choices. It has a 24-hour dining area called the Kitsch. Eclectic colors and furniture adorn the stylish place that offers varied flavors with seasonal twists. Adjacent is the Lobby Bar, a spacious and relaxing lounge that features limited edition cigars and the world’s finest wines with an intimate ambience and attentive service. The hotel boasts of the only Japanese restaurant in the city offering Sakes and a Sushi Bar. There’s also an interactive Teppanyaki counter, with separate grills for vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine. There’s also Addah, for romantic dates. This restaurant has candle lit alfresco dining with rattan ware lounge chairs and a swimming pool in the middle. Guests can keep their feet inside the still water under the table and enjoy a pleasant evening.

That apart, O Hotel has state-of-the-art conference halls, gym facilities and even Amrapali a jewelry store. A special mention goes to the banquet hall that has been conceptualized like a library. An absolute dream venue if you wish to host a marriage or reception under those sparkling lights.

O Hotel is definitely one of the swankiest destinations in the city. It’s chic, classy and of course expensive. l

o HotelS. No. 293/294, TPS Sangamwadi, Off North Main Road, Koregaon Park, Pune – 411001. Tel - 40011000


pune

ExTRACURRICULAR

in the scenic backdrop of the Panchavati hills lies an activity club that works towards making people enjoy life rather than let it pass by.

That’s One Life Activity Club, a brainchild of Arvind Bijwe that brings together like minded individuals from myriad walks of life and creates memorable experiences for everyone around.

The natural ambience adds a fresh appeal to the club. The ground level has a huge hall overlooking a pretty manicured lawn with inspiring quotes and out-of-the-box posters pasted all over the place. Inside, is the gymnasium cum activity club. The array of activities lined up includes aerobics, Shiamak Davar’s dance classes, yoga classes, music classes, canvas zone, pottery section, trim programs,

weight loss sessions, nutrition packages, books and movies club, outdoor activity camps etc. This includes Satsangs, Art of living classes, kickboxing, salsa classes, pranayam, religious trips to places like Trimbakeshwar or adventurous sports like water rafting, scuba diving, paragliding and rappelling with trained experts.

One Life also encourages participation of its members for varied social causes like blood donation, orphanages, global warming, brotherhood, old age homes, animal welfare, HIV etc. Related events include ‘The Drum Circle,’ a community and confidence building programme with Agnee drummer Varun Venkit or the ‘Cycle Rally’ a global warming and pollution awareness event conducted

on the first Sunday of every month. They also undertake educational field trips for kids and

adults on Saturday mornings to the Panchavati hills. On a regular basis, they have brainstorming sessions on formulating ingenious ways of watering the plants and protecting the flora, fauna and habitats.

For under privileged kids they have a special programme called Toy Bank where they collect toys and distribute to orphanages. On National Science Day they even collaborated with Padma Bhushan awardee scientist Jayant Narliker who gave an inspiring talk on - Are we alone in this Universe?

The club aims to be a vibrant community of dedicated individuals. Arvind Bijwe thought it was necessary to create a common platform where artists and participants could all come together to make a difference and create one life of togetherness, learning, joy and fun. And One Life does vibrate with art, culture, sports and all those things that add ‘life’ to our existence. As Arvind Bijwe believes that to achieve wellness and happiness in the truest sense it is important to associate with an activity and enjoy it completely. The club is a beautiful initiative and an extraordinary experimentation. Check it out anytime between 6 AM and 11 PM. l

Onelife,liveitMake the most of your life and enjoy every moment of it with One Life Activity Club.

one life activity clubSuccess Health Club, Panchavati, Pashan, Pune – 411008. Tel - 9370015930


pune

You don’t need to be a millionaire to give a bird a home. You just need some old oil cans, a tool kit and

some time in your hand. Established artist, muralist, bird watcher and bird photographer Vishwajeet Naik who also runs a creative academy in Pune called House of Art shows us how. Vishwajeet developed this technique with his father Dr. Sattyasheel Naik who is a noted ornithologist. They make artificial nests from scrap like oil cans and wooden boxes and now about 40 species of birds like Magpie, Robin, Grey hornbill, Birds of Paradise, Owlets, Grey Tit and Mynas use these nests as their abode. He teaches us how to participate in this cause.

How to Build• Birds can utilize simple items like plastic cans, wooden boxes and pots as homes. With old trees being felled and new trees being young, artificial nests

can be arranged by hanging objects like petrol cans on trees. Such artificial homes fascinate a lot of birds.• The most durable are the plastic cans as they do not rust or break easily like wooden boxes or pots.• To build a home out of a kerosene or petrol can, clean it thoroughly and make

sure you remove the toxic items inside. Then paint it green or brown to replicate natural surroundings.• With the help of drilling equipment (available in the market easily) make a hole big enough for the bird to get in and small enough to prevent crows from entering it.• Make sure that you drill small holes at the bottom of the nest. This will drain the rain water instead of flooding the artificial nest and killing the young ones.• If possible have feeders or water cans for the birds to drink.• Try to make nests near fruit and flower bearing trees as birds are easily attracted towards these trees. • Hang the nests in such a way that the holes do not face the tree (similar to a hollow in a tree).• Once the artificial nests have been built do not disturb the birds by looking into the nests, touching it or cleaning it. The birds will disown it otherwise.• Firmly attach to a tree or a wall, away from the heat of the sun and avoiding the direction of strong wind or rain.• The breeding months of birds start from May before the rainy season. Therefore, this is the apt time to build it.

It Helps Because• Building a birdhouse can help kids

and adults to engage in bird watching. They understand the importance

of bird habitats by seeing them in such close quarters. Kids’ love for nature develops, making them responsible citizens.• It provides opportunities for observation and facilitates scientific study of the breeding

behavior of birds in that environment.

• It increases the availability of nesting places for birds where there is

dearth of natural nest sites due to lack of mature trees.• Even migratory birds find them as a great transit halt while flying to faraway places.• The cans don’t get wasted either. So take an oil can and drilling machine to build your birdhouse. You could also visit House of Art for a special sightseeing tour. For House of Art’s contact info please visit metromela.com. l

Build a BirdhouseLearn how to build a nest from scrap. Learn how to give a bird a nice and cozy home.

ExTRACURRICULAR


viza

g

CITy HOTSPOTS

every city has a unique character that is defined by the weather and

topography of the region, the industrial and commercial landscape and, most importantly, the inhabitants and their lifestyles. Vizag happens to be a relatively young city in India, and yet it has its fair share of old hands and favorite haunts. For its readers, metromela.com compiles a special guide to the most popular places. This may come across as a brief list of stores and establishments (with a large fan following), but we would like to call it an ode to a simply wonderful city!

shopping gurusA lifeline to those who live here, and

wisely recommended to those who are new to the city, Karachiwala has been in Vizag since the times of partition. The store, like a mega-mart, is a warehouse of groceries, tinned foods, toys, cosmetics and so much more. The patriarchs at the store are friendly souls and it is probably this warmth that explains why this store continues to beat competition from larger and newer malls. Gothisons is another old store that, at all hours of its

working days, is filled with customers who love to shop here for kitchen appliances, electronic and household goods despite there being new outlets. Another favorite is CMR Shopping Mall, which is probably the most crowded spot in Vizag. Clothes, accessories, gold jewelry, toys…the list is never-ending. Families step into CMR as if on a picnic outing, and so metromela.com can’t help but love the place for the old-world ‘ease’ it offers.

Now think of a popular place to put your best foot forward in Vizag and you would be told to head straight to new-age Tango. The footwear collection here goes from the very basic to the very stylish and the best part is that the store caters to the entire family. The same holds true for Dolls-n-Chic, another popular oldie for party wear. The clothes here may seem jarring and loud, but that does not stop the ladies from

‘taking a look’. The store is packed during Navy Week celebrations.

In Vizag, gold jewelry shopping is a trademark passion, fueled

Know your Vizag

Relatively new in its

makings as a city, yet

‘old-worldly’ in its ways… here’s a look

at Vizag’s popular haunts.

by the many gold shops that dot the city’s lanes and bylanes. But the preferred choice here remains Vaibhav (with V Square following closely) for being old-fashioned and trendy at the same time.

We round off this section at Hirawats that works on the notion of a ‘family that shops together, stays together’. So families by the dozens step into this store that is stuffed with clothing and fabrics of all kinds and whose staff serves with local grocery-like warmth. In the same breath, we’d like to speak of Pages, meant to be the city’s largest bookstore but is now a mall-like entity, stuffed with the latest playtime gadgetry. This relatively new store is now an old favorite and a must-visit for most families as a part of their weekend outings to the city.

restaurants and fast food Admittedly, Vizag has witnessed a surge in eateries, bakeries and fast food joints in the recent past. Some are really good, while others continue to remain incognito. But the senior-most in this business also stays on as the most popular. We are

talking about FoodEx, which continues to head the list with great service, hygiene and fresh fast food (the Chicken 65 holds out against pizzas and burgers) and the most fabulous birthday cakes. Amongst eateries, the ‘homely’ ambience and traditional Andhra cuisine at Dharani and Dakshin ensure the staying power and popularity of these separate vegetarian and non-vegetarian restaurants at Hotel Daspalla. In a food-era of continental dining, the thalis served at these restaurants are still a big draw. We close this section with Vizag’s party scene favorite Chrome, which has played a major role in awakening the city’s nightlife. Chrome remains a ‘happening

spot’ for those who’d like to dine and wine in a pub ambience.

tourist hotspotsVizag is just not complete without its beautiful picnic spots, its favorite spots for local family outings like Ramakrishna Beach, Kailashgiri and Rushikonda Beach and its tourist hotspots like the INS Kursura Submarine Museum and Visakha Museum and its weekend outing favorites like Araku Valley and the Ananthagiri Hills.

What’s missing then?Vizag’s human face is fast turning into a cosmopolitan one with city needs. So what could be missing?

Metromela.com thinks, perhaps, a good multiplex (that, other than Telugu films, also screens Hindi and English films), a bowling alley and gaming zone for youngsters and a forum for the English theater movement. On a practical note, some stringent lessons in traffic sense, efforts to maintain safety norms for industrial pollutants and wastes and a greener environment too?

We are sure you have your own favorites. Why not write to us at [email protected] and let us know? l


vizag

Karachiwala has been in Vizag since the times of partition. The store, like a mega-mart, is a warehouse of groceries, tinned foods, toys, cosmetics and so much more. The patriarchs at the store are friendly souls and it is probably this warmth that explains why this store continues to beat competition from larger and newer malls.

HOME DECOR


viza

g

Revamped and renamed, the Girijana Vegetable Growers’ Society store in its new form as a showroom of Tribes

India, comes as a pleasant surprise. Once stocked with organic products from the tribals of Araku Valley, this store of colorful pillars and a bright yellow smiling sun signage is now replete with the best rural handiwork from all the states of the country.

An initiative of TRIFED, under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Tribes India was set up to promote self-help amongst tribal communities. This new store stocks ethnic and handcrafted merchandise, which is reasonably priced, from the heartlands of India. All the artifacts are displayed neatly in shelves placed along the walls. The most amazing feature at Tribes India is the spread of bell metal figurines from Chhattisgarh – probably

the largest collection in Vizag. These are available in all sizes and rustic forms (starting from Rs. 598, with an eye-catching horse carriage priced at Rs. 1,350), along with the ones that are beautifully framed (smaller ones cost Rs. 140, while the largest is for Rs. 950). The collection here also includes bamboo coasters from Jagdalpur (Rs. 60 to Rs. 134), unframed Warli paintings from Maharashtra, beadwork and mirror-work handbags, purses and mobile pouches (some quilted) from Gujarat and wood-work fruit bowls (Rs. 900), and long wind flutes (from the Gonds of Chhattisgarh) placed in reed baskets from the North-East, besides some lovely lanterns and tribal jewelry.

Lined atop the shelves are a series of Rajasthani terracotta busts (in pairs) that are attractively done up in bright Rajasthani finery. On the opposite side

are Girijana Vegetable Growers’ Society’s natural and organic products. Showroom manager KS Gulgoth also points to the special Assam green leaf tea packs that are now available here. At the far end of Tribes India we see a collection of south-cotton ethnic wear for men like kurtas and shirts (Rs. 450) and tribal motif T-shirts (Rs. 250), kurtis for women (Rs. 350 onwards), reasonably priced Maheshwari sarees (Rs. 1,250 onwards) and soft Pashmina shawls (Rs. 1,575). Overall, this range is limited, but selectively nice.

Stores like Tribes India make you want to linger and browse at leisure, and the staff here seems to understand this sentiment. They maintain a discreet but watchful eye, and quote prices without hurrying you along. Tribes India does not accept credit/debit cards, so you need to carry cash. Parking space is available outside the store, which is open between 8.30 AM and 9 PM on all days, with a long lunch break on Sundays between 1 PM and 3 PM. l

tribes IndiaGCC Ltd Premises, East Point Colony, Chinna Waltair, Opp VUDA Park, Vizag- 530017. Tel - 9440202477

Ethnic Treasures

Tribes India in Vizag is teeming with artifacts and handicrafts. Drop by and take home a crafted piece of rural India.

WOMEn’S CLOTHInG


vizag

a stark United Designers signage in black letters (against white) by the gatepost, just after Weekender Kids at Siripuram

in Vizag, is the only indicator of the existence of a boutique by the side. We walk in and the ‘avid shopper’ in us lets out a silent whistle of appreciation because despite a simplistic décor of clothes being strung over pegs and hangers, we see a display of neat and stated designs in natural Kalamkari weaves for women. The showstoppers at this boutique are quite obviously the slim-fit Kalamkari pants and capris.

United Designers’ recent arrival in Vizag (originally set up in the year 2008 in Hyderabad) is the culmination of a simple desire of four creative heads (Durga Prasad, Rajeev, Satya and Rajesh from the National Institute of Fashion Design) and one textile expert (Satish from the National Institute of Design) to ‘access’ customers directly. Today, this women’s designer wear boutique is quietly creating a niche in women’s ‘elite’ wear in the city for its natural pure cottons, feather-light linen and soft silks (synthetics are a big no-no here), all of which are perfectly ideal to beat Vizag’s humid weather. The clothes are a blend of Indian and Western styles, attempting to revive traditional Kalamkari in a trendier avatar. The team directly sources cottons from small weaver communities in rural Andhra Pradesh and a selection of Maheshwari silks from the weavers of Madhya Pradesh.

The collection at United Designers is worth filling up your wardrobe with. The boutique has its in-house labels ‘Prakrutik’ and ‘Up’ that personify style

and elegance. So, the fusion of Kalamkari prints, using natural and vegetable dyes in deep red, black, yellow and pastel shades, end up being instant jaw-droppers! There are cotton tops, tunics, skirts, capris and pants in western casuals and kurtis and salwar-kameez sets in ethnic wear. You also have the liberty to choose bottoms among churidars, harem pants or Patiala salwars. The color tones (light beige and cream) are fortunately the kinds that go with anything and everything. You can also take a look at some of the creations of young student-designers, as United Designers retails some of their collections too.

If you are interested in heavier silks, then there are some pure Banaras silks meant for party wear and for regular wear (shift dresses, shirt dresses, princess line dresses, empire line dresses, cocktail dresses and sun dresses). The only concession that the boutique has made in terms of a ‘different’ fabric is with the use of Hakoba and corduroy.

In a nutshell, the designs at United Designers are different and tasteful. The price tags are steep, but the collection is ideal for those who value the essence of ‘pure’ fabric

and the importance of quality (neat cuts and even neater threadwork). Each piece is created in three pairs only (a pair each for the Hyderabad and Vizag stores, and one for its retailers) to get the ‘exclusive’ zing. Customers can even pick and

choose a design from the in-house labels and switch fabrics from cotton to silk or to linen (so to some extent a tailoring facility

is available).

United Designers is open between 10 AM and

8.30 PM on weekdays and between 4 PM and 8 PM on

Sundays. Parking space is available outside the boutique and by the pavement. l

A new designer boutique in Vizag that brings back life

into hand-painted or block-printed Kalamkari artwork.

Kalamkari Revived

united Designers# 10-50-18/4/1, Ground Floor, Siripuram Towers, Siripuram, Vizag – 530003. Tel - 9966950503

RESTAURAnTS


viza

g

there is something about a home-cooked meal that beats even the best

gourmet feast; the taste, the flavor and the ‘personal’ touch, and the comfort and nostalgia that it can invoke if you are far from home and get to have just a bite. It is no wonder then that despite a rise in hip fast-food diners and glitzy restaurants that serve continental cuisine in the city, the busy Vizagite still picks up his regular fill of pickles and podis (dry chutneys) from the good old home food store that sells traditional delicacies and savories.

Bezawada Home Foods, small in size but sizably filled with customers, offers a variety of pickles ranging from the spicy red avakkai to the tangy gongura, along with rice papads, podi and

a variety of mixtures like uppuchakka. This store is also popular for its stock of fresh Andhra sweets ranging from bobbatlu (shallow fried discs of flour, stuffed with a mixture of jaggery and dal) and bondas (savory potato-filled gram flour balls) that are served hot from the girdle to ariselu (deep fried discs of rice flour and jaggery) and pootharekulu (rolled paper thin sheets made with rice sprinkled with powdered sugar). For a North Indian touch, Bezawada has pedas, gulab jamuns and milk sweets like kalakand.

Stepping into Gruhalakshmi Home Foods is like stepping into a store warped in time, as the decor of old glass jars and shelves would tell you, and in a manner of speaking this store does carry a sense of ancient history. While

owner Rambabu tells us that the recipes for his sweets have been perfected by his grandmother and mother over the years, in the large kitchens of their ancestral home, the lady of the house Anita adds that the store continues to serve the same foods and savories, without any newer additions. Bobbatlu, aariselu and cashew pak are the popular buys, while pickles are offered in a wider range. You can buy avakkai (spicy mango), sweet mango, lemon, gooseberry, red chilli, ginger, tomato, gongura (sour greens) and tamarind. These are so ideal to go with a meal of rice at home. Podi and sambar and hard-to-find rasam powders are available too. As evident, every NRI Telugu makes it a point to carry at least half a year’s stock when he/she makes the annual visit home. Students leaving for the States

too come in to pack kilos of their favorite spicy stuff to take across the Atlantic.

Another favorite amongst the NRI crowds (since 1992) is Swagruha Foods with its platter of Andhra delicacies. Its aariselu, bobbatlu and boorelu are famous, as are its pickles and podi. The owner Shankargaru tells MetroMela that apart from locals who throng his store, new residents of the city (many of whom are from the North) also enthusiastically sample the eats here. The demand for his stock also builds up during the wedding and festival seasons.

Our last find amongst home food stores in the city is Gruhapriya Pindivantalu, which is easy to sight with its traditional façade of wooden pillars and a large clay urn at the entrance and, of course, the unmistakable aroma of sweets and mixtures. All the accompaniments like traditional Andhra pickles and podi are available here, as well as Andhra specialty sweets. The store also undertakes large orders for weddings and for festive sweet gift-packages. It is rightly said that the charm of good home food never fades, and no city expresses this better than Vizag where these old stores continue to exist and do brisk business. So if you’d like to give your guests from abroad a real taste of Andhra cuisine, then log on metromela.com to find these stores’ locations. l

Home food stores continue to lure Vizagites in this age of global cuisine as metromela.

com discovered on a ‘taste-bud’ drive of these delectable finds.

Home Food Stores

cochin

a uniquely crafted signboard on the busy road at Maradu, Cochin,

beckons you to the cozy

edifice of this café/home store/art gallery called Amaara (eternal). Situated under numerous coconut trees, this 120-year old traditional Kerala home or “nalukettu” has managed to wipe out its ugly signs of age with just the right amount of paint and repair work. A natural instinct to explore rises within and you realize that it’s a one-of-a-kind place to put your feet up, tuck into steaming vadas, play chaupad or read a book. For shopaholics, there is an assortment of cottage industry

goodies like clothes, jewelry, clutches, soaps, fragrances and furniture to drool over. Amaara is Kerala-inspired and yet it stands out for being so unique among the concrete

jungle that’s growing around it. Rashmi Deepak, the force behind it, created this space to primarily meet her personal need to connect with her roots and cherish Kerala’s traditions. Luckily, she found people with a similar need. Rashmi takes care of everything from the decor, the menu, the performances and artists, and even the pieces on sale.Within Amaara, the narrow passages lead you to the

art gallery-cum-store that is stocked with everything Indian - there are exquisite ornaments, pretty lamps, wooden furniture, murals and paintings, homemade soaps and a lot more for you and your abode. Next, you notice the café that has both lovely cane loungers and comfortable tables and

chairs. Here, get ready for some mouthwatering South Indian fare such as pazham pori (banana fry), vadas, dosas, idlis and even a complete Kerala Sadhya (meal served on plantain leaves). While you munch on the food, play

some Indian board games or bring back memories of your childhood with a session of Scrabble or Carrom Board.

If you prefer to enjoy a quiet moment reading, head to the library and pick up any book and just chill out. For lovers of performing arts, Amaara has set up a beautiful stage at the cool tree-shaded yard. Here, beside the auspicious tulsi, watch mesmerizing dance and music performances. Kathakali, Mohiniattam, martial arts, classical music renditions,

all emerge at this backyard to light up your evening.

Amaara often conducts workshops, especially for children. Recently, they worked with the volunteers at MAD (Make A Difference youth volunteer network that works with underprivileged children in India) by interacting with kids from an NGO, Jeevan Dhara Bal Bhavan. The idea behind the workshop was to spread awareness about Indian culture, music and dance in a fun, interactive and informative manner.

We think Amaara is a great place to relax and connect with friends or even spend a pensive moment alone. The food is simple and homely, and for once you can look beyond cappuccinos and croissants. The backyard stage is inspiring but vulnerable against rains. The cottage industry goods and the lamps, handmade soaps and fragrances are quite affordable. Overall, it’s the perfect place to hang out if you are tired of the ultra-modern coffee pubs that play ear-shattering music! Parking space is available for approximately six cars and the place is open from 8.30 AM to 8.30 PM. l

CITy HOTSPOTS

A 120-year old Kerala home turned cultural hub for music performances, books, games

and more.

amaaraWest of SDVLP School, Maradu, Cochin. Tel - 2706922

CulturalConnect


if Cochin had to witness the best artistic performances, whether dance, music or plays, it would invariably be either at the new

Jose Thomas Performing Arts Centre (JTPAC) or at the traditional Kerala Fine Arts Society Hall. Metromela.com lets you know more about both.

The New JTPACJose Thomas Performing Arts Centre or JTPAC as it is fondly called is a coming together of a common idea – an idea that was born out of the need for a cultural hub, which preserves, sustains, propagates and nurtures the performing arts traditions of India and the world. Jose Thomas, Chairman of Choice Group and Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, the visionaries behind JTPAC, dreamed of an art ecosystem that would bring together

a cross-section of audience as well as attract the next generation into appreciating the country’s performing arts tradition.

And so in April 2009 was built the 700-seater auditorium with lighting and acoustics facilities by international production design and technology experts. Today, the auditorium frequently conducts music concerts and plays by popular artists. Recent ones include shows by Usha Uthup, Colonial Cousins, Paresh Rawal’s play [email protected], Malayalam rock band Avial’s performance, actress Shobana’s dance

drama Maya Ravana, and many more. In addition, the JTPAC community is involved in a range of art-promoting activities.

In a short span of time, JTPAC has brought together

artists from different genres to ensure that an assortment of people convene at this cultural hub and encourage diverse art forms. It has pulled in maestros from classical and fusion music, theatre


coch

in

CITy HOTSPOTS

JtpacChoice House, Choice Lane, PV Sreedharan Road,Kumbalam, Cochin – 682506. Te l - 3019700

Cultural hubs like the new JTPAC

and the old Kerala Fine Arts Society ensure

that Cochin gets to see the best of modern and traditional art

forms.Fusion of Cultures

and dance to make certain that the art community at JTPAC is not known for just one genre of performing arts. In fact, it has developed a mixed bag character.

In addition, the JTPAC community is coming up with its own productions and symphony orchestra. There are plans to open an exclusive art gallery apart from a digital archive of performing arts. Mega production of Nala Damayanthi and a Broadway-style show of critically acclaimed Malayalam movie, Chemmeen are in the pipeline. There is also an arrangement to offer scholarships to students with special interest in arts and fellowships for artists.

Watching a performance at this auditorium is a mesmerizing experience. The ushers are very polite and helpful. The rates for shows are on the higher end, starting at Rs. 500 for the seats farthest from the stage. There is a coffee and snacks counter at the theatre, which caters to guests during intervals. JTPAC

is a great place to spend an intellectual or fun evening with a

likeminded gathering of people.

Though situated on the outskirts of the city, getting to JTPAC is easy since it is located at the famous Choice House. There is ample parking space available.

The Old Kerala Fine Arts SocietyThe Kerala Fine Arts Society was born in 1956. The art lovers of the small township of Ernakulam, required space to conduct and promote cultural programmes such as music concerts, theatre and dances. So they got together to work towards this objective. Today, the society not just conducts such programmes but also teaches advanced music and dance to aspiring artists.

The Kerala Fine Arts hall is located at Fine Arts Avenue, Church Landing Road in Cochin. Built in the early 1970s, it can seat 1,200 people, which includes 800 cushioned seats at the ground floor and space for 200 people at the balcony. The auditorium is currently not air-conditioned but plans for the same are in the pipeline. Additionally, the auditorium has a suitable acoustic ambience and has been a preference with organizers in the past for Ganamela (music shows by various artists) and Carnatic music and dance recitals.

The Kerala Fine Arts Society focuses singularly on traditional performing arts, which is why art lovers will find the auditorium hosting only cultural programmes that takes one back to Kerala’s roots. The society emphasizes the importance of Koodiyattam and Kathakali and the Sopana style of music in the realm of performing arts and music, as well as the contribution of Swathi Thirunal and Raja Ravi Varma in paintings. The society’s attempt is to keep the cultural heritage of Kerala alive by constantly bringing these art forms to the forefront.

In future, the Kerala Fine Arts Society hopes to establish schools of excellence in the field of performing arts. Currently, it continues to offer advanced classes in music and dance.

While in the past the Kerala Fine Arts Society and the auditorium was held in high regard, today, the one-time glory of this society and its auditorium has diminished. Unfortunately, in recent times, the hall has been used for weddings too. The number of shows conducted here has come down; however one cannot deny the work this society has put in to re-establish the significance of Kerala’s performing arts, music and fine art. The staff here still belongs to the old school of thought, which is perhaps why the society is grappling on its way ahead. Nevertheless, MetroMela loves the old world charm the hall exudes. l


cochin

Kerala Fine arts society HallFine Arts Avenue, Church Landing Road, Cochin - 682 016. Tel - 2352730

The JTPAC community is coming up with its own productions and symphony orchestra. There are plans to open an exclusive art gallery apart from a digital archive of performing arts.

PUBS AnD CLUBS


coch

in

Comfy sofas, interesting lighting and the works. Ava Lounge at Dream Hotel in Cochin has got it right when it comes to

aesthetics. This 3,000 square feet lounge bar cum discotheque is the newest club in town, and party animals are trooping in. The lounge is fairly large with a neat dance floor and a wide bar area. The bar counter is well-manned and the service is quick. In fact, the staff ensures they find a comfortable seating area for guests as soon as they walk in.

The wine menu is well-stocked and there is Indian and imported alcohol available. Contrary to what is expected, the wine is not astronomically priced. Ava also serves finger food of which Assisette (Seafood

Dumpling), Chemmeen Ularthiyathu (Stir-fry Prawns), Golden Fried Chicken with a special sauce and Chermoula Fish Fingers are some of the hot favorites.

The pub also has theme nights. On club nights (mostly Fridays and Saturdays), entry is free for ladies and couples, while stag entry is charged at Rs. 1,500. The in-house DJs, Shekhar and Nash play on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and come in on special events as well. Ava’s special events until recently include Bollywood Night, DJ clubbed with a percussionist, Salsa

dancers, and Cheer leaders for the IPL tournament.

Metromela.com loved the overall ambience and the experience. DJ Shekhar begins playing around midnight and his groovy music gets even some non-dancers to get moving. However, the bar closes at 12 AM. This is a party-pooper especially on a Saturday night.

The crowd at Ava is distinctly a class apart. The place makes you feel at home and even if you are not much of dancer, just sitting back and enjoying the music is an experience. If you love to nurse your drink, walk in earlier to beat the 12 PM ban. Parking is not an issue here

at all. An interesting tidbit — the staff at the reception will tell you that Ava’s on the 14th floor, while it is actually on the fourth. Strange! But you will find that the elevator has numbers starting from 11. l

A new pub in Cochin, Ava Lounge, is attracting crowds in droves. Metromela.com finds out why.

Lounge Time

ava loungeDream Hotel, SA Road, Elamkulam Junction, Kadavanthara, Cochin- 682020. Tel - 4129999


Lounge Time

mysore

silk is a fabric known for its ‘royal’ touch. Even today, it exudes the rich

charm and aura that it did centuries ago. Undeniably, the beauty of a silk saree is a sight to behold. In fact, it is an attire that can never go out of fashion, irrespective of the prevailing trend. When one talks of silk sarees, it is only natural to think about Mysore, the silk capital of the country. In fact, Mysore silk saree continues to enjoy a royal position and is known all over for its grandeur and quality.

In the city itself, other than Dussehra festivities and the popular savory Mysore Pak, the Mysore silk saree enjoys a cult status. So why does this saree attract such a large fan-following? Metromela.com speaks with Suresh J Dabade, a senior Dyeing Master at the Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation Limited (KSICL) factory in Mysore, to give you some information about the Mysore silk saree and to also tell you how to maintain silk apparels.

KsIc’s silk FactoryThe silk weaving factory in Mysore (currently owned by KSIC) was established in the year 1912 by Naladi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, the Maharaja of Mysore province. The silk factory initially manufactured products for the royal family and for the armed forces. After independence, the Mysore State Sericulture Department took control of the factory. In 1980, it was

taken over by Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation Limited (KSIC), a Government of Karnataka enterprise.

KSIC uses high quality pure natural silk and 100 per cent pure gold zari to produce Mysore silk sarees. The size of a finished Mysore silk saree is 5.5 meters in length and 45 inches in breadth. Every Mysore silk saree manufactured at KSIC comes with an embroidered code

number and a hologram to prevent misuse and to trace its production history.

KSIC has four authorized stores in Mysore at KR Circle, Manandawady Road, Indiranagar and Jhansi Lakshmi Bai Road where you can source royal Mysore silk sarees and other silk apparels. To know more about these stores, log on to metromela.com. l

silk care tipsl Silk material should not be stone-washed. Preferably dry clean silk.l Use soft lukewarm water to wash silks, and use the ‘kneading and squeezing’ action to clean silk apparels. l Do not wash silk sarees by holding the body and pallu of the saree together as it can damage the designs. l To remove soiled parts, rinse two to three times in warm water. l Use either a good toilet soap or a shampoo to wash silks. Alternately, you can use soap nut (boil it in water to produce a soft lather), which is good for silk material.l Do not soak silks in water for too long. Rinse in cool water (add a few drops of either citric acid or acetic acid to water before the final rinse) and roll silk in a towel to remove excess water. l Do not expose silks to direct sunlight, whilst drying. Dry them in a shaded area. l Cover silk apparel in either brown paper or cotton cloth to protect from insects, dust and moisture. l Do not keep silk material in one fold for a long duration as it can lead to a tear. Besides, this can cause marks on the material. It is best to put them up in hangers.l To protect your silk wear from insects, use camphor balls or silica gel sachets. But avoid using naphthalene balls if the silk has zari border.l Air your silks once in two months to retain the shine.Steam ironing is always recommended. Do not use a hot iron directly on silks, and keep a thin cloth on top while ironing.l Avoid storing silk in plastic and cardboard boxes as it can harm the natural shine of the material. l To remove stains, rub with a soft damp cloth.l Avoid laundry wash, perfume spray (as substances containing alcohol damage silk fabrics) and water spray while both ironing and during detergent wash.

Rich and BeautifulExpert tips to help you

retain the shimmer of silk and the

soft touch of the fabric.


mys

ore

Sweet Austrian Cafe

The bright lights of Edelweiss Austrian Cafe are inviting as we approach Vani Villas Mohalla on Adipampa Road in Mysore. A large and attractive glass façade at the entrance gives us a peep into this small, but well-furnished and pretty café. The ambience is cozy, comfortable and relaxing.

Edelweiss Austrian Café, set up in 2007, is a one-of-its-kind cafe in Mysore as

it serves authentic Austrian pastries and other mouth-watering delicacies. An Indo-Austrian couple, PM Cariappa and Angela Cariappa Richter, own the café. Angela points out that Edelweiss is a traditional Austrian name and comes from a flower growing in the Alps. The café fulfills the couple’s need to create a unique place in Mysore where people can enjoy good food in a relaxed ambience.

We settle ourselves in at Edelweiss Austrian Café and take a look at the interestingly designed menu-card. In the shape of a star, this card also carries information about the history behind the name of the café, some useful inputs about Austria and Austrian cafes and a description of the food in detail (which otherwise would be tough to identify). For instance, there is Palatschinken (hot

pancake that is filled with a variety of sweet and savory ingredients like ice cream, chocolate sauce, nuts, fruits, vegetables, minced meat, etc), Schnitzel (Chicken and Chips, which is also a favorite in the café), Strudel (an elastic pastry filled with fruits and savory fillings), Golasch (a spicy dish of cut meat cooked with onions, herbs and spices) and Spatzle (pasta). Edelweiss also serves soups, salads, chicken specialties, pizzas, spaghetti, snacks, burgers, pastries, sweets, breads, chocolates, sandwiches, ice creams and waffles. Over-the-counter cakes are also available (hygienically displayed in airtight shelves). You can place orders for birthday cakes, wedding cakes and Christmas cakes and goodies too. Similarly, the beverages have a host of Austrian specialties like Viennese Melange (coffee, milk and foamed milk topping at Rs. 40), Kaiser Melange (whipped cream topping at Rs. 50) and Franziskaner (light coffee, whipped with cream and grated chocolate at Rs. 50). The cold coffee varieties have Viennese Ice coffee (cold coffee, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream and grated chocolate at Rs. 80), to name one among the many. Regulars include Cold coffee, Hot chocolate, Green tea, Tulsi tea, Cold chocolate cream etc.

We order for Tulsi tea (has a refreshing taste) and an Italian-style thin crust pizza that is quite filling. We also sample a Banana Split ice cream (Rs. 80). The other ice cream varieties here are Strawberry Love and Chocolate Nut Brownie. The café also serves special items like eggless, gluten-free and lactose-free foods and various breads (using only plant enzymes that are 100 per cent natural). Edelweiss Austrian Café is different from the other cafes in Mysore mainly because it serves unique Austrian cuisine. It is perfect for evening snacks of the

Of Pastries and Masala DosaJust like the Mysore palace and mallige (jasmine flowers), the Mysore masala dosa occupies a place of pride in the city’s culture. But that does not mean that the city is unwelcome to new tastes and flavors. Edelweiss Austrian café stands proof to Mysore’s growing cosmopolitan culture. Metromela.com does the balancing act and reviews the Austrian café and also shares a guide to the best places for Mysore Masala Dosa in the city.

RESTAURAnTS

mysore

continental kinds (whilst hanging out with friends) and it has a nice homely ambience. The staff members are knowledgeable, prompt and quick. There is ample parking space along the road of the café. Visit it anytime between 11.30 AM and 9.30 PM. A meal for two would be well under Rs. 500.

Spicy Mysore Masala DosaNot tasting a Mysore masala dosa on a visit here is akin to giving French wine a miss in Paris. Mysore masala dosa is a variation of the masala dosa (a savoury rice flour pancake filled with spicy potatoes and served with coconut chutney), a typical South Indian delicacy. It was created by Kadandale Krishna Bhat of Hotel Woodlands, who belongs to the Kadandale village in Udupi, Karnataka. It is nothing but masala dosa served with a generous coating of fresh unsalted butter. This special touch, however, makes every bite of the dosa lusciously creamy and melt-in-the-mouth. This tasty dish, high in carbohydrates and proteins, though mainly included in the breakfast menu is also

served at other times of the day. Here’s a guide to the best hotspots for this delicacy.

If you ask Mysoreans the place to experience the real taste of Mysore masala dosa, nine times out of ten the answer would be Mylari hotel. It serves authentic Mysore masala dosa and no other variety. For more than four decades the hotel has been serving Mysore masala dosas and the huge crowds waiting

for their turn in front of the hotel are indicative of the quality. At Rs. 12 per dosa, it’s quite a treat. The hotel is open from 7 AM to 10.30 AM and from 4 PM to 8.30 PM. It is closed on Wednesdays.

For the last few years Dosa Point has become a hotspot for dosas on D Devaraj Urs Road. Besides masala dosa, they serve onion dosa, rava dosa, plain dosa and set dosa. You can enjoy quality masala dosa for an affordable Rs.18. Their paper masala dosa (paper thin, crisp and very large dosa) and masala rava dosa are equally delicious. The restaurant is open in the evenings between 5 PM and 11 PM. Although it’s a small space and heavy inflow of dosa lovers makes it difficult to

find a table here, the dosas are definitely worth the wait. Located on Dhanwantri Road, Indra Café is famous for serving mouth-watering vegetarian fare which includes the famous Mysore masala dosa priced at Rs. 18 a plate. Although it is open from 7.30 AM to 10.30 PM,

masala dosas are usually served in the mornings and early evenings. Hotel Dasaprakash is one of the oldest restaurants in Mysore. Its clientele consists mostly of old timers who gather and reflect on the fame of the restaurant. It serves tasty Mysore masala dosa (Rs.

20) in the mornings and evenings. The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 10.30 PM. And finally, there’s Vishnu Bhavan restaurant inside the city bus stand. The restaurant is very clean and well maintained and offers very good Mysore masala dosa (Rs.18) from 7 AM to 11 PM every day. Apart from masala dosas they serve other varieties of dosas as well.

There are more happening food joints in Mysore. Read their reviews on metromela.com. l

edelweiss austrian café# 2686/1, 9th Cross, Adipampa Road, Vani Villas Mohalla Opp Aparna Book Store, Mysore- 570002. Tel - 6452448



mum

bai

MetroMela.com explores an ancient form of Indian gymnastics, Mallakhamb and a Thai form of kickboxing, Muay Thai as interesting activities for you to indulge in.

Shree Samartha Vyayam MandirLithe and supple youngsters doing tricks suspended on a rope, young boys doing back flips and uneven bar routines and scores of kids doing free-arm exercises, are all oblivious to the myriad crowds at Shivaji Park in Mumbai. They are all being trained by Shree Samartha Vyayam Mandir, an old institute founded way back in 1925 by Shri PL Kale Guruji, a renowned wrestler. Today there are nearly 1,000 students coming to the Vyayam Mandir every day. Accomplished and dedicated trainers teach interested students Gymnastics, Mallakhamb (ancient form of Indian gymnastics done on a pole or rope), Yogasana, Kho-Kho, Basketball, Football, Volleyball, Athletics, Judo, Karate, Wrestling, Bodybuilding,

Weight lifting and general games.

So much is this institute’s

dedication to physical exercise and fitness, that its students are trained in any of the disciplines for a fee of only Rs. 30 a month. Living in a gym and spa culture of exorbitant rates, it is heartening to see an institute so driven by passion, and so focused on its goal, where money is never allowed to become a condition for fitness. And the Vyayam Mandir has seen its results. Over 1,000 students have won national championships, and many youngsters have done well at international gymnastics and athletic events.

If there is anything about Samartha that needs an extra special mention, it is the Mallakhamb; and it is not just in India that this institution is propagating this sport. This year a team of students and trainers are set to go to Germany for the 6th consecutive year, and every year students from Germany, USA, Singapore

and several other countries come to Samartha for advanced Mallakhamb training under the guidance of Uday Deshpande, who heads the Mallakhamb Federation of India.

Although anyone from any age group (5 years onwards) is allowed to join, aspirants have to participate in a camp or a shibir first. The shibirs are where basics from all these disciplines are introduced to participants. Though they are simple, they are a test to see your dedication and your passion to exercise. Only once you clear the shibir, are you allowed to be a regular student of the institute. These 10 day shibirs happen every three months, with a basic fee of Rs. 50 for registration.

Shree Samartha Vyayam Mandir is almost like an answer to everything. Enroll yourself or your hyperactive kids at Samartha and watch the transformation happen. Besides, the quality of teaching and the discipline is par excellence.

Although Samartha believes that there is no age limit for fitness, it is best to

Bored of the usual extracurricular

activities for yourself or

your kid? Try Mallakhamb or Muay Thai and get introduced

to a new world of fitness and fun.

Fun, Fit and ActiveExTRACURRICULAR

shree samartha Vyayam mandirKeluskar Marg, Shivaji Park, Dadar, Mumbai- 400028. Tel - 24457870


mum

bai

start young. Parents out there, are you listening? Shree Samartha can be contacted from 7.30 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 8 PM. Limited parking space is available.

Total Combat and FitnessIt’s 7.45 AM and in the quiet precincts of the Athornan Madressa in Mumbai, you see a group of determined youngsters engrossed in rounds of rigorous warm-ups. Once the warm-ups are done with, the group disbands and each one dons his/her boxing gear and readies for the next session of combat training.

A bronze medalist at the second Asian Indoor Games, Balkrishna Shetty first started his Muay Thai (a form of kickboxing originating from Thailand) training class at the Five Gardens venue on a small scale in 2007. And since then there has been no looking back. Now in 2009 it has developed into a full-fledged martial arts training academy.

Training with Total Combat and Fitness is demanding and competitive, but satisfying. The first three rounds of warm-ups itself are enough to leave any newcomer drained of energy. But they are the most crucial part of the two hour regime. Total Combat is not just about learning to fight; to be an effective Martial arts exponent one needs high levels of stamina, energy and flexibility and as a trainer Shetty pushes you to achieve that.

The mood of the class changes suddenly once the warm-ups are through. Out come the punching bags, kicking pads and boxing gloves. While the seasoned students of the class engage themselves with circuit training, combat and sparring, the junior students are taken through all the basics by Shetty. He

starts with teaching them the fighting stance, the six basic punches and basic kicks. Once these have been mastered by the student he moves on to teach them combinations, attack and defense techniques and body movements. Only when the student feels confident enough of his/her strength, stamina and reflexes, is s/he introduced to actual sparring.

The classes are held three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 7. 45 AM, charged at Rs. 1,000 monthly per head, and every class is a surprise. Shetty makes it a point to have a different workout regime each time so there is never any monotony and it ensures that every muscle group is regularly exercised.

This class is not for those looking for a quick fix degree in Martial arts. It’s only for those who are dedicated enough to go through the long grueling rigors of training which inculcates a deep sense of discipline, integrity and self-confidence in a person. It’s definitely a place for those seeking the confidence to fend for themselves in this urban jungle. And you can derive the right kind of inspiration and guidance from Bala Shetty – the driving force behind these classes. l

total combat and FitnessAthornan Madressa, 5 Gardens, Parsi Colony, Dadar(E), Mumbai – 400014. Tel - 9869441285

viza

g picspeaksee mumbai through our eyesm

umba

i

Dadar Station, Rush Hour, Crush Hour

Outside Vileparle station

Bombay (Mumbai), the city of Seven Islands and Countless Dreams, as we see it…

mum

bai

India United Mill No. 6 The 14 acre mill was once used as a stable for breeding horses for royal transport and then converted into to a textile mill for dye works in 1899. Now talks are on to sell it for several thousand crores, with plans to build a 76-storey World Trade Centre here.

Savarkar Market the mall of the 20s

Angry tides at Worli

High Street Phoenix that was once Phoenix Mills

Kotachiwadi, the hamlet that survived the onslaught of modernity

Rajabai TowerThis timeless structure still tells the time


as your vehicle leaves the buzz of Girgaum Chowpatty in Mumbai behind and winds its way up the steep road

into the rich greenery of Malabar Hill, there is a sudden change of scene and the air is distinctly cooler. It doesn’t feel like Bombay anymore. You leave your vehicle on the main road and walk down a tapering alley lined with small houses, stone shrines and crumbling archways; some of them centuries old. There is something really serene about the air there, and you’re wondering what it’s all about, when over the next wall you spot the tank, Banganga.

They say eons ago as weary travelers walked across the dense jungles on the western side of the Sahyadri Mountains looking to quench their thirst one of them shot an arrow into the ground willing the very Ganges to erupt at that spot. The travelers included none other than Ram and Laxman in exile on a

mission to Lanka, and the place where the Ganges erupted is called Banganga. Following the myth, the tank was built around the spring in the 13th Century by the Silhara Dynasty. It was at the same time that the Walkeshwar temple was built on the West face of the tank. Legend has it that originally Ram placed a Shivalingam of sand on the spot, and that is how Walkeshwar gets its name - Valuka Iswar, Sanskrit for idol made of sand. The Portuguese destroyed the tank in the late 12th century, but the spring and the myth remained. In 1715 a Mumbai businessman and philanthropist, Rama Kamath donated enough money to rebuild the talk and refurbish the temple. On the east side of the tank is one of Mumbai’s oldest temples, the Venkateshwar Balaji Mandir, built in 1789 during the Peshwa rule. The temple with its wooden canopy needs urgent repair, but when you step into its hallowed precincts, the reverberations still envelop you with a sense of tranquility that the

mum

bai

Mumbai’s GangesAn old tank with

a mythological history that is

known to be as sacred as the

Ganga.

CITy HOTSPOTS

mum

bai

rest of Mumbai rarely allows. By the 1860s several other temples appeared on all sides of the tank, most of which still stand: the Shri Kashi Math of the Goud Saraswat Brahmins, the Mahalakshmi Temple and several other small shrines.While Bangana is quiet, languid and

relatively empty on most days, on days of religious significance, full-moon (purnima) and new-moon (amavasya) days people throng to the tank for blessings, as the water is still considered as sacred as that as that of the Ganges. Once a year in January there is the Banganga Festival of Music organized here, that brings artists from all over the

country to perform on a floating stage that is erected specially for the occasion.However, the sorry part of this ethereally beautiful tank is that it’s not well maintained by the

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and the element of filth does put you off momentarily. But you still fall in love with the place, with only a little remorse about the garbage lining the sides of the water.

Banganga may be neglected by the BMC, but it is still an enigma that transports you to an era where time seems to stand still. Do pay a visit when you want to escape the stifling materiality and chaos of the city. l


When you’re in Delhi, get up early one morning

to go to the Rajiv Gandhi Handicrafts Bhavan in Connaught place. What you will see will surprise you in a rather pleasant way. Hordes of vibrant flowers tied together in beautiful bunches will greet you all around. Popularly known as phool mandi this is known to be one of the largest flower markets of Asia. The Delhi wholesale flower market starts functioning at dawn at about 4 AM and winds up early by 9 AM, depending upon the sale of flowers.

As soon as you enter the Baba Kharak Singh Marg,

you would see lines of autorickshaws and other vehicles parked on both sides of the road. Finding a nice parking space can be very difficult here. Also, there is no paid parking in the morning so beware of people who may try to fool you into paying parking fees.

about the marketIt is believed that the market was founded in 1995 by Shri Brij Mohan Khanagwal. There are hundreds of flower traders at this market who come from far off places every day and make their living by selling the decorative cut flowers. Most of the florists all around Delhi also come here to buy the flowers they sell

during the day. Fragrances of roses, chrysanthemums and rajnigandha (tuberose) waft through the air and make your mornings pleasant.

What’s availableThe variety is extensive here. Popular flowers like Roses, Bird of Paradise and Carnations are brought in from Pune and Bangalore. The Marigold or genda flowers come in from Kolkata. You also get beautiful orange and peach colored Asiatic Lilies from Bangalore and tulips from Kulu and Shimla.

Rajnigandha, which is very popular because of its fragrance, is imported from Muzaffarnagar while the blue,

delh

i-ncr

FLOWERS AnD GIFTS

Blooming Delights

Every city has its local markets. Delhi has plenty

too. Metromela.com explores its beautiful and

bright wholesale flower market.


purple, pink, white and other colorful orchids come from Bangkok. The market also has a variety of Gerbera flowers in red, yellow, orange and pink colors. Others include anthorium, Jaffri, Margaret, Patti Calcutta, lotus and more. The rose lovers can have a ball as apart from the popular red rose, the vendors also sell peach colored roses, yellow roses, white roses and pink roses.

Different types of leaves and stems used for decorating the bouquets are available too. These are especially popular with the florists who buy them in bulk. Bouquet accessories like colored nets, cellophane sheets with different designs, branch wires and sponges used for the bouquets, cello

tape, scissors and ribbons in different colors apart from cane baskets, glass jars and other accessories can also be found here at very low prices.

The flower traders also sell bamboos for your home. The prices for these fluctuate depending upon the season. The prices are comparatively

low in the month of March as the production is high and the market receives good merchandise. The market also has its share of dry flower vendors who sell a large variety of dry flowers, dry flower baskets and pot-pourri.

There are chaiwallas and kachoriwallas selling snacks and beverages to these flower vendors. If you are hungry then there is a small shop towards the Shivaji Stadium road near Rajdhani restaurant, that serves chole bhature and lassi early in the morning.

metromela’s tips• If you are planning to buy a large number of flowers then make sure that your car is parked near the market.• It is advisable for women to avoid visiting the market alone. • For the lowest price, it is best to visit the market around 8.30 AM when the flower sellers start winding up and are ready to sell their flowers at low prices.• Different vendors ask for different prices for the same flowers. Therefore it is better to explore the market a little before you start buying.• If you are buying roses, check them or else you may be handed wilted or old flowers. l

delhi-ncr

The market also has a variety of Gerbera flowers in red, yellow, orange and pink colors. Others include anthorium, Jaffri, Margaret, Patti Calcutta, lotus and more.

CITy HOTSPOTS


delh

i-ncr

Museums bring out a whole new world - whether they are

historical, anthropological, art or science related. They are havens of knowledge and a treasure house of information. They teach concepts through their display and make learning fun. Delhi has an interesting set of museums, ranging from aviation related to even one on toilets! Here’s an update.

To understand how the railways in India started, you can visit the National Rail Museum. The museum displays one of the oldest working steam engines, The Fairy Queen, which is one of the star attractions here.

The displays at the museum relate to trains, antique clock and furniture, mannequins of the railway staff and their uniforms, dummies and working models, documents and photographs etc. The open area displays the locomotives and shows how the railways developed over the years. You can visit the museum anytime between 9.30 AM and 7 PM from April to September. From October to March, the timings change to 9.30 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

For aviation enthusiasts, Delhi has the Air Force Museum near Palam Airport. The museum displays various vintage aircrafts and allows you to peek into the history

of the Indian Air Force. Apart from actual aircrafts, you can see uniforms, weapons, anti-aircraft guns, war trophies and pictures from different periods. The Air Force Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday between 10 AM and 5 PM.

If you have always been curious about history, you should pay a visit to the Archaeological Museum. The museum is set inside the Red Fort and displays rare relics and manuscripts that date back to Mughal era and those before it. Excavated objects like pottery, coins, jewelry, costumes etc. belonging to the Mauryas and the other rulers are all displayed here. The museum is divided into

Museums aren’t always

boring. In fact, they can

be quite a fun-filled eye-opener if you

know which ones to go to.

Muse, Amuse


delhi-ncr

different sections where one can see remnants from the Indus Valley Civilization as well. You can visit the Archaeological Museum on all days except government holidays. The museum is open between 9 AM and 5 PM.

The Indian handicraft industry is fascinating too. Delhi’s Crafts Museum reflects that through its collection of more than 20,000 objects. Ritual accessories, decorative metal ware, tribal art and crafts, traditional Indian textiles, aristocratic objects and more, belonging to different regions of the country and dating back to the bygone era can be seen here. The museum also has a section where visitors can get to see how these things are made. You can visit the museum at Pragati Maidan anytime between 10 AM and 5 PM. The museum is open every day except on Mondays and national holidays.

Indira Gandhi Memorial at Safdarjung Enclave was the home of the former Prime Minister of India. The living room and the library have

been maintained just the way they were, before she was killed in 1984 and are not open to the public. Some of the rooms here are dedicated to her son Rajiv Gandhi as well. The pictures help you to get a glimpse of her life through her childhood and to the period when she was made the Prime Minister of India. In the garden, the spot where she was assassinated

and fell has now been made into a memorial. One can still see the dried blood stains through the glass cubicle. The saree in which she was shot and Rajiv Gandhi’s burnt clothes (from his assassination) are also displayed at this museum. It is open from 9.30 AM to 5 PM every day except on Sundays.

And now a strangely unique

one - Sulabh International Museum of Toilets. Here you can see how toilets evolved with time! It allows people to see the designs, material and the different technologies that were used by our ancestors to get rid of, well, human waste. You can get information about the toilets used since 2,500 BC and can also get to see some of the dummies of the old toilets used by humans. A replica of the throne of King Louis, XIII is also displayed at the museum which has a commode underneath. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday between 10.30 AM and 5.30 PM.

tips from metromela.com• Photography and filming is not allowed at some of these museums.• Silence is maintained so it would be preferable to put your mobile on silent mode.• The museums are all closed on government holidays.• Most of them have nominal or no admission fees. l

Model of station with station master

L-Replica of King Louis XIV’s throne which had a commode under it. R- Solar toilet that does not require water. The excreta is dried using solar energy and turned to manure.


CITy HOTSPOTS

Connaught Place hides within its commercial façade, an architectural splendor - Agrasen ki Baoli. The baoli

or the water reservoir is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is considered to be of national importance. However, it lies unexplored.

The reservoir beautifully displays the architecture of the 14th century, when it is believed to have been built. Around 103 steep red stone steps lead

downwards towards the 60 meter deep and 15 meter wide reservoir. Redstone walls envelop the sides and small jharokhas (window like openings) in the walls add a touch of elegance.

The reservoir is believed to have been built by Raja Agrasen and thus the name. In the earlier days, it was used to store water. In fact, it had water till recent years as well. Now however, it has dried up and all you can see are bird’s feathers and droppings. Some environmental

groups believe that the reservoir can be revived to store rain water. This, they insist, would even help solve the fresh water problems in Delhi to some extent. In their effort to awaken people around this issue, they have even held exhibitions and taken people for a tour of the reservoir. For many like us, who visited it for the first time, this was definitely a hidden historical treasure.

For those who have watched the movie Chandni Chowk to China, Agrasen ki Baoli may bring déjà vu. Some scenes of the movie were shot in this reservoir. Possibly, one of the claims to fame for this almost forgotten historical monument.

Metromela.com recommends a visit to the beautiful architectural delight. No entry fees here. l

Look beyond the India Gate and the Red Fort in Delhi. There is a lesser known

protected monument, Agrasen ki Baoli, worth visiting as well.

Historical Peek

delh

i-ncr

maqdoom brosSufi Chambers, Road No. 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad – 500034. Tel: 2332510915%men’s/women’s clothing

Offers are MetroMela specific. To avail these offers, cut and use the coupons above while shopping.

Hot Deals

mandava suitesPlot No. 27 & 28, Arunodaya Colony, MadhapurHyderabad – 500033. Tel: 23114477

hotels and serviced apartments

off

2O%off

KoushikShop No. 7, Main Road,Dilsukhnagar, Hyderabad – 500060.Tel: 9396343974

15%Books & stationery

royal pest control# 8-1-523/161, Brindavan Colony, Tolichowki, Hyderabad – 500008. Tel: 64566174

home services

off

10%off

Flora biotech# 2-2-1100/1/A, F-4, Jaya Residency, New Nallakunta, Secunderabad - 500044., Tel: 658815821O%

home services

east# 598, 2nd Main, Koramangala Village, Koramangala, Bangalore – 560095. Tel: 40524200

furniture

off

3%off

arogya Kerala# 101, Reliable Residency, Road No. 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad – 500034. Tel: 233968

Rs400alternative medicine

Kapaas# 1-43/B, Main Road, Madhapur, Hyderabad - 500081.,Tel: 66848882Landmark: Near ING Vysya Bank

clothing

annualmemBership

1O%off

Kashmir art industries# 210, Brigade Road, Bangalore – 560001. Tel: 4151050012%

home decor/flowers & gifts

the World Winner# 32, 3rd Cross Street, Kasturba Nagar, Adyar, Chennai – 600020. Tel: 42117250

flowers and gifts / kids’ shopping

off

5%off

sri shakthi cabs# 86, JJ Khan Road, Royapettah, Chennai - 600014., Tel: 044-284818185%

tours and travels

nathan’s rock salad# 96, Kavery Complex, Shop No. 23, Nungambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai - 600034., Tel: 28252020* on registration charges

music and movies

off

5O%off*

valid till 31 dec 2010

valid till 11 may 2010

valid till 30 sep 2009

valid till 31 dec. 2009



valid till 31 aug 2009

hyde

raba

dhy

dera

bad

hyde

raba

d

hyde

raba

dhy

dera

bad

hyde

raba

d

bang

alor

eba

ngal

ore

chen

nai

hyde

raba

dch

enna

ich

enna

i






EvEntCALENDARWHAt’S HAPPEnInG In your cIty

hyderabadSeptember 25th – 27thFood and Wine Exhibition

Upper Crust Show, a unique food and wine trade fair, brings together the finest of vintners, distillers, chefs, restaurateurs etc.

Hyderabad International Convention CentreFor more details, call 040-66134422.

August 22nd – September 12thArt Exhibition

Abstract paintings by Deepak Sonar, Jeet Aulakh, Anil Gaikawd, Promod Gaikwad, Srinath and others.

IconartFor more details, call 09849968797.

August 28th – September 6thChasing The Monsoon

Drive away your monsoon blues with a special monsoon special a la carte menu.

Taj DeccanFor more details, call 040-66523939.

September 3rd – 6thInside Outside Mega Show

Inside Outside Mega Show for interior design, furniture and furnishings, building and construction industries.

Hitex Exhibition Centre For more details, call 040-27765716.

August 7th – 30thPasta and Risoto

Select pasta preparations served with complimentary desserts.

Novotel HyderabadFor more details, call 040-66824422.

August 6th – 31st

Art Exhibition

The Royal DictArt, an exhibition of artworks by Masuram Ravikanth.

Daira Centre for Arts and CultureFor more details, call 040-66618628.

September 25thKuchipudi Dance

Kuchipudi Dance by Kids Andhra Balananda SanghamFor more details, call 040-27561443.

bangalore September 12th, 7.30 PM Kharaashein – Play

Buzzintown presents Kharaashein, a play by the famous film lyricist and poet Gulzar based on his poems and short stories. The play is conceptualized by

Salim Arif.

Chowdiah Memorial HallFor more details, call

09886400774.

August 22nd, 29th; September 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th

(Event occurs every Saturday)

Drink till you drop night

NYK’s Lounge presents drink till you drop night with DJ Supreeth.

NYK’s Lounge For more details, call 09986984878.

August 22nd, 10 AM onwardsFossils Live Biggest Bengali Rock Show in Bangalore. Special Attraction: Corporates v/s Colleges (Band Competition)

Palace GroundsFor more details, call 09916341730.

August 22nd – 23rd, August 29th – 30th, 10.30 AM

Voiceover Artist/ RJ / Compering Workshop

Get an inside view on how you can use your voice as a voice over artist, master of ceremony, radio jockey and presenter.

iRebootFor more details, call 09986984878.

August 1st – 30th, 12 PMSuper Sunday Brunch at Latitude

Latitude plans to make your Sunday a fun filled gastronomic experience by introducing the first ever ‘world on your plate’ eating experience.

Vivanta by Taj

For more details, call 080-66933333.

June 30th – August 31stArt Exhibition An exhibition of paintings by Avinash Veeraraghavan titled Toy Story.

GalleryskeFor more details, call 080-41120873.

September 8th – 11thElectronica & Productronica India 2009 An international exhibition and conference for electronic components, assemblies, materials and production technologies.

Bangalore International Exhibition Centre For more details, call 022-26452101.

powered by

amirtha car rentals# 7, RKP. Road, Saidapet, Chennai - 600015.,Tel: 984137782215%

tours and travels

Offers are MetroMela specific. To avail these offers, cut and use the coupons above while shopping.

Hot Deals

asha# 179, Royapettah High Road, Mylapore, Chennai – 600004. Tel: 42087166

kids’ shopping / women’s - men’s clothing

off

1O%off

the contemporary WindowH-137/3, 2nd Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090. Tel: 65853122

flowers & gifts / home décor

5%off

cambridge# 40, Pondy Bazaar, T Nagar, Chennai - 600017., Tel: 28153391Landmark: opp Rajkumari Theatre7%

men’s clothing

silk india# 4/5, Bhoomi Plaza, Masjid Gali, Dadar(W), Mumbai – 400028. Tel: 24338888

men’s/women’s clothing

off*

10%off

silk india# 381A, Narottam Wadi, 2nd Floor, Kalbadevi, Mumbai – 400002. Tel: 22050000

men’s / women’s clothing

10%off

states emporiumVishweshwarayya Building,KR Circle, Mysore – 570001. Tel: 24202358%

women’s clothing

sri gadwal Weavers society# 6-3-803/1/13, 1st Floor, Ameerpet ‘x’ Road, Ameerpet, Hyderabad – 500016. Tel: 66756469

women’s clothing

off

10%off

ashok book centre# 13-1-1C, Green Park Road, Jagadamba, Vizag – 530002.Tel: 256599515%

Books and stationery

Konark casuals# 28-2-9, Jagadamba, Vizag – 530002. Tel: 9908341777

men’s clothing / kids’ shopping

off

1O%off



valid till 15 jan 2010


valid till 31 oct 2009

chen

nai

chen

nai

chen

nai sheela’s arts & crafts

Shop No. 17, Lal Bahadur Stadium Complex, Basheerbagh, Hyderabad – 500001.Tel: 23236944

10%flowers & gifts / home décor

off

hyde

raba

dch

enna

i

Kataria’s selection# 45,1st Floor, Cathedral Road, Chennai - 600086., Tel: 28111182Landmark: opp Stella Maris College3%

women’s clothing

off on purchases worth rs. 1000/- & above

chen

nai

mum

bai

mys

ore

hyde

raba

d

mum

bai

viza

gvi

zag


on purchases worth rs. 500/- & above

valid till 31 oct 2009

valid till 30 sep 2009 valid till 30 sep 2009



on cambridge brands only



powered by

August 1st – 31st New Menu Creations at Le Jerdin Savor new culinary delights and creations alongside the old classic favorites at Le Jerdin.

The OberoiFor more details, call 080-25585858.

September 22nd – 24th

Agri & Food Processing India

One of India’s rare agriculture and food processing events.

Bangalore International Exhibition Centre For more details, call 080-22284862.

September 11th, 7.15 PMCarnatic vocal concert

A forum for musicians, Karnataka Ganakala Parishat has arranged a grand vocal concert of renowned classical musician Dr. Nagavalli Nagaraj and Party.

Seva SadanaFor more details, call 080-23347830.

August 16th, 23rd & 30th (Event occurs every Sunday)Submerge Sundays at Fuga

DJ Manny with Brute Force Kaycee and Alive on 16th August; Robert Babicz from Germany on 23rd August and B.O.L.T on 30th August Fuga Nightclub For more details, call 09620134428.

chennai

August 29th, 7 PMAlauddin & 100 Watts Bulb – Play

Alauddin & 100 Watts Bulb is a play in Tamil presented by K C Mohan.

Sree Vaari Fine ArtsFor more details, call 09884491390.

September 21st – 30thChef’s Catch festival

Relish lip-smacking delicacies at the Chef’s Catch festival.Le Royal MeridienFor more details, call 044-22314343.

September 25th – 27thICON 2009

India International Construction and Contracting Exhibition

Chennai Trade CentreFor more details, call 044-22316033.

August 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30thWeekend Buffet

Savor lip-smacking weekend Buffet at Radission Hotel.

Radisson GRT HotelsFor more details, call 044-22310101.

September 25th – 27th Interiors International India 2009

Opportunity to showcase interior products, services and technologies.

Chennai Trade Centre For more details, call 044-22316033.

August 1st – 31stBuffet dinner at Verandah

Buffet dinner at Verandah, with unlimited select spirit.

Taj ConnemaraFor more details, call 044-66000000.

September 7th – 13thCoastal Malabar Savor Coastal Malabar delicacies at Le Royal Meridien.

Le Royal MeridienFor more details, call 044-22314343.

puneAugust 30th, 8 PMHollywood Karaoke

Sing your thing at the Hollywood karaoke night with Anthonio.

Not Just Jazz By The BayFor more details, call 020-66044200.

September 1st – 30thWeekly Markets in Oil paintings

Deep Art Gallery is organizing weekly markets in oil paintings.

Deep Art GalleryFor more details, call 020-25658761.

July 14th – September 12th Workshop

Scrap booking, card making, creative gifts and lots more. GalaKidzFor more details, call 09730077168.

August 29th, 8 PMHorizon Live

Horizon, a classic rock band will perform live.

Not Just Jazz By The BayFor more details, call 020-66044200.

August 28th, 8 PMLive Night - Roxygen

Live Night with Roxygen, a retro and classic rock band.

Not Just Jazz By The BayFor more details, call 020-66044200. July 25th – 27thScript Writing Workshop

Zen Idea presents script writing workshop by Ram Yadav.

Pune Fertility CentreFor more details, call 09960039961.

November 5th – 8thModern Machine Shop 2009

A unique business forum for all engineering professionals.

Auto Cluster Exhibition CentreFor more details, call 020-40091501.

cochinSeptember 17th – 20thInside Outside Mega Show

Event for interior design, furniture and furnishings, building and construction industries.

Jawaharlal Nehru International StadiumFor more details, call 09846091797.

November 21st-23rdKerala Gem and Jewellery Show

The Art of Jewellery presents the Kerala Gem & Jewellery Show.

Le Meridien and Convention CentreFor more details, call 080-25201687.

June 8th – September 6thIndian and Continental Grill

Savor lip-smacking Indian and Continental grill.

Hotel Taj MalabarFor more details, call 0484-6643000.

November 22ndMrs Kerala Beauty Pageant 2009 Kruti Harmoney Events and Promotions present Mrs Kerala beauty pageant 2009.

Marine DriveFor more details, call 09946000640.

July 8th – September 6thSea food

Relish scrumptious Sea food at Lagoon.

Le Meridien Hotel and International Convention CenterFor more details, call 0484-2705777.

mumbaiAugust 21st- 23rd, 28th -30th; September 4th-6th, 11th-13th, 18th-20th, 25th–27thWeekends Culinary Break

Experience culinary wonders par excellence.

ITC MarathaFor more details, call 022-28317976.

August 30th, 11 AMLet Her Be Born - Play

Experience a rich quilt of women’s experiences across time and space

woven through words, music and dance.

Prithvi Theatre For more details, call 022-26149546.

July 23rd – August 30th, 12.30 PM5 Ka Dum

Eat 5 Unlimited Lunch Buffets for the price of 4.

Aromas of ChinaFor more details, call 022-67254444.

September 11th – 13th India International Travel Mart India International Travel Mart (IITM)

brings people together to promote inbound, outbound and domestic tourism.

World Trade CentreFor more details, call 080–41152214.

July 4th – August 31stCheerful Evenings at Opium Den

Enjoy spirited evenings over cheerful conversations at Opium Den with Happy Hours from 6 PM to 8 PM at Trident.

Opium DenFor more details, call 022-66326314.

September 11th – 13thAdventure Monsoon Camp Adventure Monsoon Camp at Sherpe-Napane Waterfall in Konkan. Camp Site: Jungle Resort.

Adventure IndiaFor more details, call 09423923518.

July 2nd – August 31stHot Fresh Hotdogs

Hot Fresh Hotdogs with proprietary toppings, buns and drinks.

DdawgsFor more details, call 09920653369.

powered by


August 25thOpen Mic Event

Open Mic Event at Prithvi Theatre is where you are invited to recite, sing, dance, perform in any way you like for 2 minutes.

Prithvi TheatreFor more details, call 022-26149546.

delhiJuly 19th – August 31stMelons and Mangoes GaloreSavor the authentic Thai desserts of sweet ripe mangoes with Thai sticky rice, refreshing watermelon or musk melon served with coconut syrup and super cool tender coconut with crushed ice.

Bangkok Degree 1For more details, call 011-29555696

August 28th, 7 PMBharatanatyam performance

Natya Vriksha and Chinmaya Mission present a Bharatanatyam performance by Sharanya Chandran, daughter and disciple of the renowned dancer Geeta Chandran.

Chinmaya MissionFor more details, call 011-24643301.

August 13th – September 13thArt Exhibition

Art & Deal presents an exhibition of artworks by Alok Bal, Aparna Mohanty,

Babu Eshwar and others titled Towards a New Viewership/Audience.

Art KonsultFor more details, call 011-26531819.

Event occurs every Sunday (Till December 30th) Regional Thali - every Sunday

Regional thali from different regions of the South with beer.

Marriott Hotel For more details, call 011-26521122.

August 29th, 5 PM Heritage walk

Heritage walk to Lal Quila by Walk Delhi, an Itihaas initiative. The walk will take you through 360 years of history.

Red Fort For more details, call 09999449216.

September 19th & 20thProperties Ahead- Real Estate Expo

This unique exhibition aims at offering complete solution for all types of property, finance, interiors or exteriors related requirements.

Pragati MaidanFor more details, call 011-42444241.

August 29th – September 6th Delhi Book Fair &

Stationery Fair

Fair for publishers, sellers and distributors of books, periodicals and magazines, manufacturers and dealers of teaching aids and computer software. Pragati Maidan For more details, call 011-23371688.

September 9th – 18th Art Exhibition

Triveni Kala Sangam is organizing an exhibition of artworks by Anand Narain.

Triveni Kala SangamFor more details, call 011-22355272.

August 27th, 6 PM Flute recital

Spic Macay presents Delhi Virasat - Flute recital by Hari Prasad Chaurasia and Hindustani Vocals by Pandit Ulhas Kashalkar.

Spic Macay For more details, call 011–32594087.

September 19th – 21st Jewellery Wonder

An exclusive show which unveils the best of jewellery designs and product launches.

Pragati Maidan For more details, call 011-41544254.


powered by


accessories ganesh Diamonds# 1-3-68, Guruviah Complex, General Bazaar,Tel – 66484789

tibarumalCharkaman Tel – 24576534

alternative medicineHeera ayurvedic centre# 4-6-442/444, Esamia BazarTel - 24738733

swaasthya ayurvedic centreGP Rao Enclave, Road No.3, KPHB Colony Tel - 9246173748

booKs and stationeryWilliam penn# 26 A, Hyderabad Intl. Airport, Shamshabad Tel - 66603969

Write site# 201, 2nd Floor, Prasads I Max, Necklace RoadTel - 23450489

city hotspotsBotanical gardensKondapur

mrugavani national parkChilkur

consultants and agentsWhyte Flag Hill Ridge Springs, S. No. 25, Gachibowli Tel – 23002488

doctors and hospitalsoro care Dental Hospital# 5, B.No. 40, Akruthi Nilayam, C’zech Colony, Sanath NagarTel - 23816662

elbitC/o Dr. Ramayya’s Hospital, BasheerbaghTel - 9247270096

electronics and appliancese ZoneMaruti Plaza, KhairatabadTel - 64604792

sony center# 1-10-74/1, Main Road, BegumpetTel – 27764033

event managementexotic events# 6-1-85/G/A, Lakdi Ka PulTel – 23215566

extracurricularKaumudi academy# 1, Vivekananda Apartments, Kapra Tel – 27120498

shooting starsIzzath Ngr Tel – 9885501996

Kids’ healthlakshmi children’s HospitalChaitanyapuri, DilsukhnagarTel – 24143703

medi Kid Hospital# 6-3-778/44, Durganagar Colony, AmeerpetTel – 23408763

malls and super marKets

Value martMadhuranagar, YousufgudaTel – 66775599

men’s clothingesprit# 15, 16&17, Lobby Level, GVK one Mall, Road No. 1, Banjara Hills Tel - 44767876

Brand FreakWhite House, Block-3, Ground Floor, BegumpetTel – 39187765

music and moviesseventymmSamrat Commercial Complex, 1st Floor, A&B, # 5-9-12, Secretariat Road, SaifabadTel - 66418020

music WorldPlot No. 394, Ground Floor, # 9/1/A, Cross Roads, Saroor Nagar Tel – 24146728

h Y d e R a b a d std codE- 040

# 8-1-523/161, Brindavan Colony, Tolichowki,

Hyderabad - 500008 Tel – 9391010846

(Abdul)

RoYal pest controlSpecialists in Anti Lizards, Cockroach, Termite, Rodent

& General Pest Control.


FloWers and giFtsabhisiri corporateDomalgudaTel – 23225182Professionally managed company exclusively for corporate gifts.

FloWers and giFts / home decorsheela’s arts & craftsShop No. 17, Lal Bahadur Stadium Complex, BasheerbaghTel – 23236944Vases, wall hangings, bedspreads, table covers, figurines, paintings etc.

the candle shopLower Ground Floor, Ashoka Metropolitan Mall, Road No. 1, Banjara Hills Tel – 23386244Designer and aromatic candles in over 500 varieties.

Furnitures. B. sofa makers & Door curtains# 8-2-603/B/34/56, Road No. 10, Zaheer Nagar, Banjara HillsTel – 9391362537

Specialists in making customized furniture especially sofas.

gyms, spas and salonsevlasPlot No. 160, Road No. 10, Banjara Hills Tel – 23320588Unisex salon for hair coloring, facials, pedicure, manicure

hotels and serviced apartmentsHampshire plaza# 6-1-79 & 80, Lakdi Ka PulTel – 23335555Four star deluxe hotel with 100 rooms, pub, coffee shop.

mandava suitesPlot No. 27 & 28, Arunodaya Colony, MadhapurTel – 23114477Practical and stylish Mandava Suites makes an ideal choice for stay.

emensee suites# 31, Kaushik Enclave, Road No. 12, Banjara HillsTel – 40073470Service villa with walk-in

wardrobes, bathtubs, LCD televisions, Wi-Fi facility etc.

Kids’ shoppingJack’s Hobby storeAt Shopping Centre, # 3-3-15, RP Road Tel – 27813329Radio-controlled toys for kids.

restaurantsthe great Kebab Factory# 283/A, Mantri, 3rd Floor, Road No. 12, Banjara HillsTel – 23302244 Prix fixed menu for Tandoori and Barbequed food.

schoolsIndus International schoolSurvey No. 424 & 425, Kondakal, ShankerpallyTel – 08417-302100Co-educational international school offers education from Grade 1 to 12.

DikshaPlot No. 9, AP Text Book Colony, Karkhana Tel – 44553144Co-educational Waldorf school where there are no textbooks till Grade 5.

b a n g a l o R e std codE- 080

accessoriesudani optics# 556, 10th Main, HAL III Stage, Jeevan Bheema NagarTel – 25297229

mac# 17/2, Ashok Nagar, Magrath Road Tel - 41126844

raza gems# 88, BT Street, Avenue RoadTel – 41149478

alternative medicineswaram Homeopathy clinic# 24/B, 23rd Cross, 2nd Stage, Banshankari Tel – 9845802103

academy for reiki training and Healing# 77/1, Yashovan, 4th Phase, JP Nagar Tel – 9845531133

booKs and stationerythe Bookworm# 32, Basement, Brigade RoadTel – 41126755

Vedanta Book House# 92, Appu Rao Road, 6th Main, Chamarajpet Tel – 26507590

city hotspotsJanapada lokaRamanagar

abbey FallsMadikeri

doctors and hospitalsWord of mouth Dental clinic# 318, Carlton Towers, Airport Road Tel – 25273515

apollo clinic# 60/3, Konapanna Agrahara, Hosur Main Road, Electronic City Tel – 67345000

electronics and appliancesImagineII Floor, The Collection, UB City, Vittal Mallya RoadTel – 22132000

iiird iShop No. 1&2, 1st Floor, # 97, Total Mall, Konena Agrahara, Airport Road Tel – 9738565325

event managemententertainment Factory# 42, Vysya Bank Colony, 2nd Stage, 100 Feet Ring Road, BTM Layout Tel – 41201718

Dreamland events# 35/3, Floor above Festo, Wilson Garden, Bannerghatta Road Tel – 22236921

extracurricularagaram riding and polo academyArmy Service Corps Centre and College (ASCC&C), HALTel – 25356121

FloWers and giFtssuryani arts & crafts# 1, North Block, Ground Floor, Manipal Centre, Dickenson Road Tel – 25092123

Bangalore Blooms# 2/32, II E Main, Bhoopasandra New Extension, Sanjay NagarTel – 23413122

gyms, spas and salonslily’s# 712, Edward Road, Vasanthnagar Tel – 22289621

pedicure clinic# 5, Raja Ram Mohan Roy RoadTel – 65979978

home decormozaic D’sign# 6, 10th Main, 1st Cross, II Stage, IndiranagarTel – 41155308

Hands carpets# 12, Shamrao Compound, Mission Road Tel – 22232223

hotels and serviced apartmentsthe chettinad# 5/3, 1st Main, 1st Cross, Colonel Naidu Layout, Abhaya Dhama Road, WhitefieldTel – 42400800

Hotel grand Bee# 37/1, Railway Parallel Road, Yeswanthpur Tel – 23575000

Kids’ healthgunasheela Hospital# 1, Dewan Madhava Rao Road, Basavanagudi Tel – 26673585

Kids’ shoppingZapp# 74, Commercial StreetTel – 41239284

Kids Window# 7/3, Bull Temple Road, ShankarapuramTel – 41205991

malls and super marKetsadi naturals# 620, 6th D-Main, 11th Cross, 3rd Phase, JP NagarTel – 26584071

la Fromagerie# 88, 11th Cross, I Stage,

Indiranagar Tel – 25219675

men’s clothingZodiac# 64, Bluemoon Complex, MG Road Tel – 65333619

new World# 2/1, North Park Road, Kumara Krupa RoadTel – 22372626

music and moviesBangalore little theatrePrayag’, # 248, 13th Cross, Wilson Garden Tel – 22236890

mothey DVD rentals# 66, Shop No. G-16, Gem Plaza, Infantry Road, Shivaji Nagar Tel – 25590303

pet careWet pets# 1, Corporation Complex, 5th Main Road, GanganagarTel – 9986035541

the Bangalore canine clubPost Box No. 4273, Mezzanine Floor, # 122, Shree Complex, St. John’s Road Tel – 65371441

pharmaciesmallige pharmacy# 31/32, Crescent RoadTel – 22267662

pubs and clubsIllusionsSwiss Town Hollwood Junction, Pioneer House, Sadahalli Post, Devanahalli Tel – 22044000

alibi# 52/1, Church StreetTel – 25594365

restaurantssavoury# 56, Mosque Road, Frazer Town Tel – 65739230

Blue alpsSwiss Town Hollwood Junction, Pioneer House, Sadahalli Post, Devanahalli Tel – 22044000

Koramangala, Bangalore.

Tel – 9663303268 (Aslam)

RoYal pest controlSpecialists in Anti Lizards, Cockroach, Termite, Rodent

& General Pest Control.

FOR MORE SUCH LISTINGS LOG ON TO AUGUST 2009www.metromela.com 63

Furnitureeast# 598, 2nd Main, Koramangala Village, Koramangala Tel – 25719576Offers colonial, contemporary and custom-made furniture.

C h e n n a i std codE- 044

accessoriesVIp lounge# 50, Pondy Bazaar, T NagarTel – 42025057

ashok Jewellers# 73, Bazaar Road, SaidapetTel – 24356106

alternative medicineVaigai Homeo clinic# 92, Ramasamy Salai, KK Nagar Tel – 23641461

sai aashirvad ayurvedic clinic# 31, AL Noor Complex, Devanathan Street, MandaveliTel – 24616403

booKs and stationerysaraswati House# 10/34, Mahalaxmi Street, T Nagar Tel – 24343740

crosswordKimberly Service Station, HPCL, Poonamallee High Road, Amnijikarai Tel – 42032096

city hotspotsVendanthangal Bird santuaryVedanthangal

Blur gaming Zone4th & 6th Floor, Sathyam Cinemas Complex, Thiru-vi-ka Road, RoyapettahTel – 43920326

doctors and hospitalsDentistree# 7, IT Highway, old Mahabalipuram Road, Karapakkam Tel – 24503666

Dr. rai memorial# 562, Century Plaza, Teynampet, Anna SalaiTel – 24349594

event managementKiddoscope# 10/15, II Street Extn. Seethamal Colony, TeynampetTel – 42031010

naya swad# 778, Poonamalle High RoadTel – 26412246

extracurriculartatsuokan Isshinryu Karate# 20, 4th Main Road, AGS Colony, VelacheryTel – 9841462536

Dolphin swimming complex# 8, B Block, State Sports Complex, MogappairTel – 65473011

home servicespest control solutions# 27, South Gangaiamman Koil,

1st Street, ChoolaimeduTel – 24734790

hotels and serviced apartmentsHotel centre point# 286, Rajiv Gandhi Salai, Sholinganallur Tel – 24509000

Hotel Bhimaas100 Feet Road, # 1, Amman Koil Street, VadapalaniTel – 24812481

Kids’ healthapollo children’s Hospital# 15, Shafee Mohammed Road, Thousand LightsTel – 28298282

raghava Hospital# 9, East Road, West CIT NagarTel – 24356222

Kids’ shoppingKids WorldShop No. 29, City Centre Basement Complex, Purasawalkam High Road, Kilpauk Tel – 9345613311

new Born# 21/3, 24th Cross Street, Besant Nagar Tel – 42151410

malls and super marKetssri annai organics# 1293, Dr. Ambedkar Road, Raja Rajeshwari Nagar, MadipakkamTel – 9443206790

Food Bazaar# 55, Sriji Apartments, Manapakkam Main Road, Manapakkam Tel – 42014125

men’s clothingeuropa# 24/10, IV Main Road, Nanganallur Tel – 45585364

gatsby collection# 4/359, ECR, NeelankaraiTel – 24495010

music and moviesplanet m# 390, oMR, Nehru Nagar, Kandanchavadi Tel – 43593327


electronics and appliancesoHm computersG-5, Nakoda Complex, Narasingapuram Street, Ritche Street Tel – 28587833Keyboards, motherboards, web cameras and computer related accessories.

FloWers and giFtsmishmash # 7, 1st Seaward Road, Valmiki Nagar, TiruvanmiyurTel – 43042658Gifts and personal accessories for all occasions.

FurnitureIndika creations# 103/104, II Link Street, Nehrunagar, off oMR, Kottivakkam Tel – 24540435Specializes in antique furniture and intricate designs.

Furniture / home decorrani arts & teak# 8, Harrington Road, ChetpetTel – 42327887Handicrafts, colonial furniture, dhurries, carpets, jewelry and more.

tulsi’s arterior# 62, Josier Street, NungambakkamTel – 65643255Antique-looking furniture, home furnishing fabric and artifacts.

gyms, spas and salonsa cut aboveHotel Savera, # 146, Radhakrishna Salai, MylaporeTel – 28114700Family salon for facials, waxing, threading, bleaching, hair bonding etc.

salon nayana# 124, GN Chetty Road, T Nagar Tel – 28343064Specializes in hair cuts, curls, perms, rebonding, extensions etc.

home decorlinenboxMint Box Company, # 55/8A, 7th Avenue Lane, Besant Nagar Tel – 45511991White colored bed linen, table cloths, place mats, bath towels, bath mats etc.

liFestyle homesnahar Foundation’s private limitedX4, Nahar Villa, 21/7, North Mada Street, ThiruvanmiyurTel – 9500013579Construction company popular for independent houses and apartments.

restaurantslydie’s# 2/196, Ruby Garden, East Coast Road, MuttukaduTel – 27472602Vegetarian and non-vegetarian Continental food.

Dhabba express# 9, Cenotaph Road, TeynampetTel – 24328211/24328212Authentic Punjabi food in a highway dhaba ambience.

yoga and meditationsivananda yogaSivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Anna NagarTel – 26630978Yoga for relaxation, fitness and weight loss.

p u n e std codE- 020accessoriesranka Jewellers# 1131, Krantha Corner, Ravivarpeth Tel – 24479716

the time FactoryGround Floor, Kakade Centre Port Mall, Shivaji NagarTel – 9860148250

alternative medicineVarun Venkit’s# 11B- Giridhar, Vikram Sheela Society, Panchavati, PashanTel – 9890002465

suraj ayurveda clinic# 102, Dixit Society, Law College Road, ErandwaneTel – 25456476

booKs and stationeryrasik sahitya# 683, Appa Balwant Chowk, Budhwar Peth Tel – 24451129

staplesShop No. 301, 1st Floor, Kakade Mall, Shivaji NagarTel – 66080994

popular Book House# 75, Deccan GymkhanaTel – 25671737

city hotspotstaljai ForestsSahakar Nagar

sentosa1KM Before Expressway Starts, Village Ravet, PCMCTel – 27672196

smruti udyanC/o Nisarg Sevak and PMC Formerly Vanaz Dumpyard, Paud Road Tel – 25433731

doctors and hospitalsHealing touch# 4A & 4B, 1st Floor, Triveni Apartments, Gokhale Road, Model Colony Tel – 65006330

Bora Hospital# 589, Ganesh PethTel – 26383453

electronics and appliancesKelvinAmit Complex, E Building, Chinchwad Tel – 32313037

sony exclusive# 1, Bibwewadi Tel – 24214004

extracurricularswatantra theatreShree Mahavir Jain Vidhyalaya, Agarkar Road Tel – 9923643335

salsa IndiaPulse Studio, MG Road, CampTel – 9820362629

FloWers and giFtslaxmi Flowers# 95, Parmar Nagar, Fatima Nagar Tel – 64001848

FeelingsCentral Mall, University RoadTel – 25449284

Furniturestyle spa# 45/3, Padmaja Apartments, Tanna Towers, Law College Road, ErandwaneTel – 25412318

yash InteriorsMantri Vextex, Law College RoadTel – 9370648470

gyms, spas and salonsrudra spaSurvey No. 274 / 275 / 2, Bhosale Farm, Wakad - Hinjewadi Road, HinjewadiTel – 64731818

Body & soul# 20, South Block, II Floor, Secret World, WanowariTel – 41032345

home decorgood HomestoreKalewadi Chowk, Aundh Chinchwad Road, WakadTel – 40719999

House Full3rd Floor, KothrudTel – 66212147

Home centreMarigold Premises, Vadgaon Sheri, Kalyani NagarTel – 40008181

home servicesunique pest control# 21, Raghukul Housing Society, Paud Road, Karve NagarTel – 25452174

perfect pest controlShop No. 5, Shradda Residency, Fatima NagarTel – 9881992833

hotels and serviced apartmentsHotel KalasagarP-4 Plot, Mumbai-Pune Highway, Pimpri Tel – 27112461

parc estiqueNagar Road,Viman NagarTel – 41004100

Kids’ healthashiwini clinicSwargate Tel – 24442570

Dr. HiramathCannought Plaza, 1st Floor, Camp Tel – 26128837

Kids’ shoppingloot mart1st Floor, # 2, Plot No. 2, BanerTel – 40789380

apple Kids# 589, I-69, Indraprastha Complex, Rasta PethTel – 26052863

malls and super marKetspune central# 256, Boat Club RoadTel – 30588600

spencer’s DailyPlot No. 9, Sujay Garden, Mukund NagarTel – 24262705

men’s clothingZodiacG7B, # 1, Nucleus Mall, Church Road, Camp Tel – 65237259

cantabilShop No. 121 & 122, Indrayu Mall, Konarkpuram, Kondhwa Khurd Tel – 40090128

music and moviesplanet mPlot No. 9, Shop No. 30/1, Guruprasad Building, Balaji Nagar Chowk, Pune Satara Road Tel – 64705651

FameJai Ganesh Vision Mall, AkrudiTel – 27442744

pet carepets lifelineKrishnayi State Bank of Patiala Compound, Aundh, DP Road, Ganeshkhind RoadTel – 9822406968

pets WorldShop No. A1, 1st Floor, Amba Bazar, MG RoadTel – 9822043370

pharmaciesmedplusShop No. 9, S.No. 39, Meera Housing Society, Shankerseth Road Tel – 26440206

pubs and clubsmartiniShop No. 3 & 4, City Point, DP Road Tel – 26168555

Kiva the lounge# 210/A, Symphony ‘C’, Range Hills Road, Ashok NagarTel – 25538339

restaurantscafe HollywoodPlot No. 178, 179 & 180, Lullanagar Tel – 26837000

leo Ice cream# 936, Shukrawar PethTel – 24478647

schoolsshemrock nestlingsC/3, S. No. 128/2B/2, Prasant Society, Sus RoadTel – 9890380432


v i z a g std codE- 0891accessoriesVIp loungeGround Floor, B Block. Isnar Plaza, DwarakanagarTel – 2702977

lawrence & mayo# 28-2-55, Tenneti Square, Jagadamba Tel – 2564189

alternative medicinepositive Homeopathy# 46-22-49, Railway Station Road, DondaparthyTel – 6633533

satya’s addlife# 7-5-931,PandurangapuramTel – 2509558

booKs and stationeryashok Book centre# 13-1-1C, Green Park Road, Jagadamba Tel – 2565995

Flower arts# 50-81-49, SeethammapetaTel – 2553605

Book centre# 47-15-4, Guru-Banga Complex, Diamond Park Road, Dwarakanagar Tel – 2562684

city hotspotspanchadarlaPanchadarla

Kondakarla Bird sanctuaryKondakarla, Anakapalli

gangavaram BeachSteel Plant

doctors and hospitalsst. Joseph’s HospitalZilla Parishad Junction, Maharanipeta Tel – 2706974

st. anns HospitalMalkapuram Tel – 2577830

electronics and appliancesgothisons# 28-46-23, SuryabaghTel – 6646333

nagraj# 27-4-45, Main Road Tel – 2562712

extracurricularsri gita prachara samitiSri Gita Bhavan, Rajappanaidu Street,old Town Tel – 2728751

Kuchipudi KalakshetraMarikavalasaTel – 9848167937

FloWers and giFtscelebrationsC-3, Tirumala Arcade,AsilmettaTel – 9440610021

nrK Flower DecoratorsPlot-115, Sector 3, MVP ColonyTel – 2706743

Furniturestyle spaSrinagar, NH - 5, GajuwakaTel – 2741123

Wood land# 48-14-62, Rama Talkies Road, Srinagar Tel – 2552313

gyms, spas and salonsDarpanSiripuram Fort,Waltair UplandsTel – 27455242

Jawed Habib Praveen Plaza, 1st Floor, VIP Road, CBM CompoundTel – 2521142

home decorandhra Foam & Furnishing # 9-1-224/1, Raj Residency Road, CBM CompoundTel – 6660650

hotels and serviced apartmentsHotel Daspalla Suryabagh Tel – 2564825 Haritha Hill resortsAnanthagiri Hills, Araku RoadTel – 9848007022

Kids’ shoppingBinaca creations302, Jaideep Apartments,Kirlampudi LayoutTel – 2552549

Dreamz# 12-4-34, Green Park RoadTel – 6616199

malls and super marKetsKarachiwala stores# 10-50-25/1, SiripuramTel – 3297719

satyam super marketPlot No. 15, Noukanagar, Pedda Waltair Tel – 2718670

men’s clothingspirits# 30-15-123, Potluri Mansions, Suryabagh Tel – 2512841

tribes IndiaGCC Ltd Premises, East Point Colony, Chinna WaltairTel – 9440202477

music and moviesrhythm HousePrakasaraopet Junction, Jagadamba Tel – 2721125

Jain audio and VideoSangam Sarat Junction, Diamond Park Tel – 6638833

pet caremarshall’s pet Zone# 10-12-6/92, Ramaraju Towers Rednam Gardens, Jail RoadTel – 6460786

pharmaciesmedplus# 1-68-20, MIG-2/2, Sector 2, MVP Colony Tel – 2547142

nizams chemistsKing George Hospital,KGHTel – 6523465

pubs and clubsHangoverHotel Talasila,Station Road Tel – 2797788

temptationHotel Royal Fort,AsilmettaTel – 6667575

restaurantssri siva rama sweets# 10-10-28, Main Road,

Gajuwaka Tel – 6671323

toasty ZLandmark Complex, G-7, Waltair Uplands Tel – 6636416

schoolsprarambha# 15-10-7/1, Krishna Nagar,Maharanipeta Tel – 9346451555

VignanDuvvada Tel – 2517666

tours and travelsaptDcRTC Complex,AsilmettaTel – 2788820

arnav travelsKRM Colony,SeethamadharaTel – 2713726

Women’s clothingapcoMain Road Tel – 2561994

Indu garments# 15-12-15, Gokhale Road, Maharanipeta Tel – 2706042

Venketagiri sri Kala# 38-2-70, Sri Arcade, Jagadamba JunctionTel – 2523242

Vastram# 9-19-4/1,CBM CompoundTel – 6666622

Kanchan Boutique# 12-4-32, Chandu’s Plaza,Green Park RoadTel – 2752019

united Designers# 10-50-18/4/1, Ground Floor, Siripuram Towers, SiripuramTel – 9966950503

yoga and meditationramakrishna mission# 7-8-25,Beach RoadTel – 2562561

art of livingPlot No. 100, Sri Sri Narayana Vidyalayam,Daspalla HillsTel – 9885103438


C o C h i n std codE- 0484accessoriesreliance trendsLevel one, oberon Mall, NH By-Pass, Edappally Tel – 4466012

Vesta# 28/124, Panampilly NagarTel – 2316887

alternative medicinepanchajanyam nagarjuna# 39/724, Karakkattu RoadTel – 2376119

arya Vaidya salaMG Road, PallimukkuTel – 2375674

booKs and stationeryJanatha Book stallShop No. Xl/1670, Choolackal Building, Press Club RoadTel – 2373784

Deecee Book shopIsland Castle,Chittoor RoadTel – 2362796

city hotspotsJose thomas performing arts centreChoice House, Choice Lane, PV Sreedharan Road, KumbalamTel – 3019700

the Hill palace museumThiruvankulam,TripunithuraTel – 2781113

doctors and hospitalsHitech Diagnostic centreMC Road, AngamalyTel – 2458333

pramod Dental clinic1st Floor, Kuttath Building, Valanjambalam Tel – 2375150

electronics and appliancesthe cam shopPioneer Towers, Marine DriveTel – 4026557

panasonicBy-Pass Junction, PalarivattamTel – 2535551

extracurricularal-ameen

Co-Bank Tower, Manapatti Parambu, Kaloor Tel – 2405182

avishkarPadmasree, Surabhi Enclave,SA Road Tel – 2313791

FloWers and giFtscrafters# VI/141, Jew TownTel – 2223346

Bobsun art gallery# 27/4445 B3, Diamond Towers, PK Nair Road, Perumanoor,ThevaraTel – 2665974

FurnitureKairaliKailath Building, MamangalamTel – 3243540

charmer FurnitureNH Bypass Tel – 4067288

gyms, spas and salonsB-FitCosmopolitan Club Building, Club Road,GirinagarTel – 9447307055

ViolaColony Stop, Crash Road, Vazhakala Tel – 4042763

home decornanappa art galleryLeela Layam, Karikkmury Cross Road Tel – 2376489

Veneta cucine# 28, Muscat Towers, Sahodaran Ayappan Road, Kadavanthara Tel – 6500636

hotels and serviced apartmentsDream HotelSA Road, Elamkulam Junction, Kadavanthara Tel – 4129999

gramamNeduveli House, KumbalangiTel – 2240278

Kids’ healthmother and child HospitalVyttila Tel – 2303283

Kids’ shoppingmarque# 41/2728/A, Ernakulam North, St. Benedict RoadTel – 9447282008

loot mart1st Floor, Plot No. 716/2, Pathicheril Building, NH - 47, Kalamassery Tel – 6450107

malls and super marKetsFabmallNediyath Square, Market Junction, Hill Palace Road, Tripunithura Tel – 2779511

spencer’s DailyKanakdamodaran Auditorium,Veekshanam RoadTel – 6455203

men’s clothingBits IndianaLevel Three, oberon Mall, NH 47 By-Pass, EdappallyTel – 4058060

Kng BrothersBroadway Tel – 2352410

music and moviessridarShanmugum RoadTel – 4025226

planet mSN Junction, PalarivattamTel – 4069777

pet carepetsmall# 39/2713 A, Krishnaleela Trading Company, Warriam RoadTel – 6450013

cradle carePipeline Junction,ThrikkakaraTel – 2577867

pharmaciesFatima medicals# 7/1037, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry Tel – 2212081

lakshadweep medical storesWillingdon Island Tel – 2667135

pubs and clubsthe cheersNedumbassery, Nayathode Post, Angamaly Tel – 2610366

DrunckonMermaid Complex, Kaniyampuzha Road, NH 47, Bypass, Vyttila Tel – 2307999

restaurantsmirch masalaMinn Shenoy Center, Ground Floor, TD Road Tel – 6415262

Hot BreadsAmbady Apartment, Warriam Road Tel – 2368055

schoolsshemrock superkidsHouse No.135, Kumaranasan Nagar, Elamkulam, Kadavanthara Tel – 4021112

m.e.t public schoolPerumbavoor Tel – 2523898

Women’s clothingtaj collections# 2425-B, Vipins Arcade, Palluruthy Veli Tel – 2235844

FairieConvent Road Tel – 2351131

Kalyan silksHospital Road JunctionTel - 4081111

Fabindia# 26, First Floor, Bay Pride Mall,Marine Drive Tel - 3043517

yoga and meditationayush# 2/530A, Ground Floor, Grace Tourist House, Fort CochinTel – 6456566

life yogaChangampuzha Samadhi Road, Edappally Tel – 2330009

sanjeevani yoga centre# 28/3596, Chilavanoor RoadTel - 2310346


M Y s o R e std codE- 0821accessoriesVIp lounge# 81/8, Devaraj Urs RoadTel - 4264732

Vision expressDhanyas Manor, Udhyaram Road, KuvempunagarTel - 4243612

alternative medicineDixit Health clinic# 88, 8th Main Road, 9th Cross, SaraswathipuramTel – 2543619

prajiva# 20/33, SBM Colony, 2nd Stage, SrirampuraTel – 2362170

booKs and stationerysauharda Book stores# 1683, 2nd Main, HR StreetTel – 2424394

cls Book shopMaharaja Complex, 1st Floor, Bangalore Nilgiri RoadTel – 2443846

city hotspotsJayalakshmi Vilas mansionManasa Gangothri

Bandipur national parkMysore-ooty Road

doctors and hospitalsgopala gowda HospitalT.Narasipura Road, NazarbadTel – 2447745 Hitech Kidney stone Hospital# 1779, Kabir Road Cross, Mandi Mohalla Tel – 4262113

sharada eye HospitalThejus Complex, 1st Floor, Sardar Patel Road, Gandhi Square Tel – 2426383

electronics and appliancesnakoda computers# 2, Green Complex, KT StreetTel – 4267965

gK Vale1st Main, Chamaraja Mohalla,

SaraswathipuramTel – 4000121

extracurricularup Kidz# 332/1. D Subbaiah Road, ChamarajapuramTel – 9845359518

natana rangamantapaK-Block, Vasavi Layout, Ramakrishna NagarTel – 2562208

FloWers and giFtsmystoreCh-19 & Ch-19/1, Jayalakshmi Vilas Road Tel – 4267103

ramsonsHandicrafts Sales Emporium, Ramsons House, Zoo AreaTel – 2443669

Furnitureosiya Furniture# 71, Ground Floor, Sri Rama Complex, Devaraj Urs Road, Devaraja MohallaTel – 3299333

enduro Furniture# 268-C, Hebbal Industrial Area, Hunsur Road Tel – 2402746

gyms, spas and salonssynergy Wellness# 59, Stone Building, 8th Main, JayalakshmipuramTel – 4267500

Honey Beauty parlour# 19, Divya Complex, Dr. Rajkumar Road, JSS Layout, Jyothinagar Tel – 9886155238

home decorDream HomeShop No. 1, # 2805/3, 1st Cross, HalladakereTel – 4262444

preetham HandicraftsShop No. 2, Dhanvantri Complex, Dhanvanthri RoadTel – 2425179

Kothari Furnishings# 117, 35th East Cross, Ashoka Road Tel – 4269329

home servicespest control# 4, Seeta Vilas Choultry, Narayanashastry Road, KR Mohalla Tel – 2522748

Indoor pest control# 200/E, KHB 1st Stage, KuvempunagarTel – 9448796099

hotels and serviced apartmentsmayura Hoysala# 1293-D-2, KSTDC Complex, Jhansi Lakshmi Bai RoadTel – 2425349

Hotel Kalinga# 23, KR Circle Tel – 2431310

Hotel ayodhya# 2927, Bangalore-ooty Road, Lashkar Mohalla Tel – 2445593

Kids’ shoppingsuraj garmentsShop No. 4, old Bank RoadTel – 9845668960

mickey trainTribhuvan Tower, Dewans RoadTel – 2525013

malls and super marKetssagars Home WorldC Layout, New Banimantap Extension, Hanumanth NagarTel – 2492444

Fabmall# 228, A Block, JP NagarTel – 2372221

men’s clothingtejas selections# 1460, NS RoadTel – 2420604

sri chethana Fashions# 1645-49, ShivarampetTel – 6558004

music and moviesnew opera talkiesSri Harsha Road, GayathripuramTel – 2420116

Video tech# 70/G, Ground Floor,

Panchavati Circle, Kalidasa Road, Vani Villas MohallaTel – 4287236

pharmaciesJss Drug HouseJSS Hospital Complex, Ramanuja Road Tel – 2563843

pharma India # 143, Ramvilas Road, KR Mohalla Tel – 2422942

pubs and clubsBar Mysore Mercara Road, HinkalTel – 2519141

tunes n tonic# 20, Adhi Manor, Chandragupta RoadTel – 4001000

Fountain BarHotel Paradise, # 104, Vivekananda Road,YadavagiriTel – 2410366

restaurantsshree mahalakshmi sweets# 997, 3rd Main, VidyaranyapuramTel – 2482067

tina’s# 3, Main Road,GokulamTel – 2416668

toot c5th Main Road,YadavagiriTel – 2514717

gtrChamundipuram Tel – 2332457

schoolsKendriya VidyalayaGITB Press Campus, SiddarthanagarTel – 2473515

De paul InternationalBelagola, Mandya Dist, SrirangapatnamTel – 08236-290340



M u M b a i std codE- 022accessoriesI by ImtiazShop No. 125 & 126, 1st Floor, Atria Mall, Worli Tel – 24813449

Vijay Jewellery storeold Taj Mahal Building, Ground Floor, Apollo Bunder, ColabaTel – 22029432

alternative medicinecare n cure# 104, Adarsh Building, SV Road, Santacruz (W)Tel – 26053213

mamta clinicFirst Floor, Building No-5, Rail View, Station Road, Chembur (E)Tel – 25288922

booKs and stationeryB4 Books# 5, Neelkanth Pride, Sector 42-A, Seawood, NerulTel – 64165876

ritika Book HouseL-29, oberoi Hotel, Nariman Point Tel – 22843761

William penn# 21, Grand Galleria, High Street Pheonix, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower ParelTel – 40041251

city hotspotsnishiland Water parkMumbai-Pune Highway, Panvel

BangangaMalabar Hill, Walkeshwar

doctors and hospitalspowai polyclinic# 19/A, IIT Main Gate, PowaiTel – 25780707

nm medicalMehta House, # 36, Pandita Ramabai Road, ChowpattyTel – 43425555

electronics and appliancesBraintone# 2, Ground Floor, Nadshree Apartments, Phadke Road, Dombivali(E) Tel – 9820464333

cromaG-10, Elphinstone Building, Veer Nariman Road, Horniman Circle, Fort Tel – 43412200

event managementJoyride# 2-C, Sett Minar, Peddar RoadTel – 9820123752

Funfaktory# 11, Kassim Cottage, Sussex Road, BycullaTel – 9892955073

extracurricularBaile-De-salonArts in Motion, # 39, TV Chidambaran Road, Sion(E)Tel – 9867333669

Dance KidsMiniland School, 1st Floor, Hornuz Mansion, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Breach CandyTel – 98219181442

FloWers and giFtsohana anthurium# 3, Muni Building, Navakal Lane, Girgaon Tel – 23808839

tulip springs# 9/C, Sangam Towers, Master Vinayak Road, Bandra(W)Tel – 65214847

Furnituretangent# 61, Minerva Industrial Estate, off PK Road, B/2, Sai Dham, Mulund(W) Tel – 25915888

DurianTalwar Compound, Pokhran Road No. 2, ThaneTel – 25341922

gyms, spas and salonsBrown n Brown# 170, Galleria, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai Tel – 40052167

evolve med spa Level 1, B Wing, Siddhivinayak Horizon, Veer Nariman Road, Prabhadevi Tel – 24313197

home decorshree Balaji Furnishings

# 7, omkar Apartments, Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Dadar(W) Tel – 24110575

lladroShop No. 1, Sunder Mahal, # 141, Marine Drive, Veer Nariman RC, ChurchgateTel – 22823436

hotels and serviced apartmentsHotel Itc maratha Sahar Airport Road, Andheri(E)Tel – 28303030 Hotel grand Hyattoff Western Express Highway, Santacruz(E) Tel – 66761234

Kids’ healthchildren’s orthopedic HospitalHajali Park, Clerk Road, Tulsiwadi, MahalaxmiTel – 24920030

Kids’ shoppingmothertouchA/1, Laxmi Baug, Sion(W)Tel – 24022131

catmossLittle World Mall, S-222, Sector-2, Kharghar Tel – 27743070

malls and super marKetsraghuleela mega malloff SV Road, Kandivali(W)Tel – 28631508

rita stores# 272, AS Dias Building, Ground Floor, Church Lane, Dhobi TalaoTel – 22070239

men’s clothingmanzoni# 7, Monolith, Nepean Sea Road Tel – 23673277

provogue studioGround Floor, Palm Beach Road, Vashi Tel – 27895735

music and moviespVr cinemas3rd Floor, oberoi Mall, off Western Express Highway, Goregaon(E) Tel – 40730300

cinemaxInfiniti Mall, New Link Road, Andheri(W) Tel – 26841616

pet carepaws ‘n’ FursShop No. 3, Kailash, # 156, Waterfield Road, Bandra(W)Tel – 66990858

pharmaciesapollo pharmacyPlot No. 195/B, Sector-12, Vashi Tel – 27881322

pubs and clubslounge BarSahar Airport Road, Andheri(E)Tel – 28380000

Firangi paaniFun Republic, Level-3, Andheri(W) Tel – 26744144

restaurantsZaffranB-Block, Sita Ram Building, DN Road, Crawford MarketTel – 23401976

shamianaTaj Mahal Palace & Tower, Apollo Bunder, Colaba Tel – 66653366

schoolsthe american school of BombaySF-2, G-Block, Bandra-Kurla Road, Bandra(E) Tel – 67727272

tree HouseGround Floor, Temple Avenue, Deodhar Road, MatungaTel – 65529841

tours and travelsDs tours & travels1st Floor, Chatwala Building, # 188, Yousuf Meher Ali Road, Masjid Bunder RoadTel – 23464232

sK tours & travels# 4, Ratna Bhoomi Building, SK Bole Marg, Dadar(W)Tel – 67863333


d e l h i - n C R std codE- 011accessoriesBruno manetti1st Floor, Shop No. 137, Ambiance Mall, NH-8Tel – 0124-4665447

VansonsG-35, Ground Floor, North Square Mall, Fun Cinemas, Pitampura Tel – 47049041

alternative medicineKairali ayurvedic Health spa# 120, Andheria Modh, Mehrauli Tel – 65664447

Vcc ayurveda and panchakarma clinicX-13, Sector-12Tel – 0120-2584636

booKs and stationeryJain Book agency# 12, Central Plaza Mall, Phase-V, DLF Golf Course Road, Sector-53 Tel – 0124-4143020

Book ZoneK-9, SRS Multiplex, Sector-12Tel – 0129-4103679

american Book centre# 3A/101, Rang Rasayan Apartment, Sector-13, RohiniTel – 27860335

city hotspotsBuddies planetC-305, Ansal Plaza, Andrews Ganj Tel – 46054055

light & sound showRed Fort, Darya GanjTel – 23274580

doctors and hospitalsFortis HospitalB-22, Sector-62Tel – 0120-2400222

apollo clinicF-4, East of KailashTel – 41621500

electronics and appliancesWhirlpool Home# 8 & 9, MGF Plaza, MG RoadTel – 0124-4105655

sony WorldG-37, Shipra Mall, IndirapuramTel – 0120-2689700

extracurricularthe DanceworXC/o Billa Bong High School, A-73, Sector-34Tel – 011-40520111

children’s riding clubRace Course, SafdarjungTel – 23012265

FloWers and giFtsshaw BrothersUGF-1&2, Centre Stage Mall, Sector-18 Tel – 0120-2512882

Valaya.Fnp FleurG61, Ground Floor, Select Citywalk Mall, SaketTel – 9999999177

Furniturestyle spaA-32, 1st Floor, Part-II, Lajpat Nagar Tel – 41721995

DurianA-01, Sector-10Tel – 0120-4345792

gyms, spas and salonsHealth sanctuaryJ-12/13, Rajouri GardenTel – 45130545

Vlcc Day spa M-1, 1st Floor, M Block Market, Greater Kailash-ITel – 32037207

home decorparadox one Crescent at the Qutub, Top Floor, Lado SaraiTel – 65679378

art D’InoxG-02, A-3, District Centre, SaketTel – 40534525

hotels and serviced apartmentsthe oberoi Hotel Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg, Mathura Road Tel – 24363030 the grand Hotel

Nelson Mandela Road, Phase-II, Vasant Kunj Tel – 26771234

Kids’ healthKalawati saran children’s HospitalBangla Sahib Road, Connaught Place Tel – 23344160

Kids’ shoppingZappG-71, Janakpuri District Centre, Janak Puri Tel – 64555401

mothercarePlot No. A-10, Shivaji Place, District Centre, Rajouri GardenTel – 25444101

malls and super marKetscity centre# 5, Janpath Bhawan, JanpathTel – 41500717

ansal crown plaza mall29th Milestone, Mathura Road, Sector-15ATel – 0129-4001537

Pacific MallPlot No. 1, Dr. Burman Road, Site-IV, Sahibabad Industrial Area, Anand ViharTel – 0120-3012301

men’s clothingpal ZileriGround Floor, American Plaza, Intl. Trade Tower, Nehru PlaceTel – 46518471

gopalsons# 580, Phase-V, Udyog ViharTel – 0124-2345494

French connection1st Floor, Eros Mall, Rajouri Garden Tel – 9313136775

music and moviesmusic land# 319, 3rd Floor, Great India Place, Sector-38ATel – 26518855

pVr rivoliConnaught PlaceTel – 0124-4708080

pet care

pet pointShop No. 3, # 1/45A, West Avenue Road, Punjabi BaghTel – 25228376

pharmaciesevergreen# 4, Defence ColonyTel – 24333475

pubs and clubsstringsS-434-438, Shoprix Mall, Sector-61 Tel – 0120-4266646 splashThe Westin Sohna, Vatika Triangle, Business Centre, Karanki Road, Sushant LokTel – 0124-4508888

restaurantsmy chef’s Kitchen# 53 UA, Jawahar Nagar, Kamla Nagar Tel – 9871156041

Q’BaK-185/1, Surya Plaza, New Friends Colony Tel – 26845152

schoolscarmel conventMalchamarg, Chanakyapuri Tel – 26871299

presidium schoolSector-16B, Phase-II, DwarkaTel – 9311585474

tours and travelsmm travels# 67, Bhagat Singh MarketTel – 23368888

Women’s clothingmalhotra’s# 63 & J-13, Central Market, Phase II, Lajpat NagarTel – 29842587

saboo’sG-9, MMX Mall, GT Road, Mohan Nagar Tel – 120-4114698

punkII Floor, Centrestage Mall, Sector-18 Tel – 0120-4132096

welcome to our First Transit Hotel

SettingNew Standardsin Hospitality

So where do youwant tostay?After an excellent experience of catering to client satisfaction we have launched a First Transit Hotel at GMR Shamshabad. This Transit Hotel is strategically located opposite to Inter-national Airport junction and is first of its kind in Hyderabad.It is a 30-room property and a Sleep in Lounge. The hotel is truly a preferred choice for short stays and those who want to be close to the airport. It has a multi-cuisine Restaurant. Guests can avail services of pick and drop to the Airport around the clock.With its elegance style and comfort it will be the discerning traveler’s ideal Transit stay.

HOTEL

HOTEL

HOTELNear International Hotel, Shamshabad.Ph: 08413 - 223355, 97045 23535. [email protected]

metro mela magazine august issue 2009

Documents

city of mumbai

additional cities mumbai

touch of old

different cities

city thats

old madras houses

old kalamkari art

old school mate springs